‘Writer baton’ is a project whereby photo-writers from each of the 7 prefectures that surround the Seto Inland Sea send each other their particular prefecture’s specialties.

This is the first time for yours truly to participate, photo-writer Tobita from Tokushima.

I received an Iwakuni lotus root set from Mr. Fujimoto in Yamaguchi prefecture that included:

-Iwakuni lotus root (fresh)
-Lotus root chips
-Lotus root seitan
-Lotus root noodles

I had no idea there was such a variety of different lotus root products! Apparently, it has been cultivated in the Iwakuni area ever since the Edo period, so they must be experts on its flavor.

Let’s try it out.

I start with the lotus root chips. They’re crispy and light – Great beer snacks!

Next is the lotus root seitan. Made from lotus root powder, apparently they can even be eaten as is dipped in jam. I try them without any seasoning – they are certainly savory!

I added some to soup. After absorbing broth, they’re moist and delicious.

Next is the lotus root noodles. The ones Mr. Fujimoto sent are a product of Ikemoto Shokuhin. They’re made using a method called “torishikake”, which includes a 60-hour maturing period. It apparently gives a more wheat-like flavor and produces firm, flat noodles that are smooth and chewy! This was the first time for me to try them, but I could’ve just kept on eating.

And finally, I added some minced meat to the fresh lotus root and made lotus root and meat sauté. The lotus root has a unique stickiness and a soft texture. Apparently, Iwakuni lotus root is a familiar ingredients sold at any supermarket in the Iwakuni area. I learned later that it is an indispensable ingredient in Iwakuni sushi. I’d like to try it when I visit Yamaguchi.

Thank you Mr. Fujimoto!

Next time, I would like to send Ms. Ohashi in Ehime prefecture a certain ingredient well-known on the dinner tables of Tokushima.

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Omiyagedokoro Tenboichiba
Location: Kintaikyo Bus Center 2-3 floor, 1-1-42 Iwakuni, Iwakuni city, Yamaguchi prefecture
Open: 9:30-17:00 (September thru March), 9:30-18:00 (April thru August)
Tel: 0827-43-3630
http://www.tenboichiba.com/ (Japanese) 

Setouchi Finder Photo-writer: Kumiko Tobita