The Popular Korean Pairing That Captivated Japan: Pork Belly and Minari
Creatrip Team
a year ago
Minari (Korean watercress) is gaining popularity in Japan, especially in dishes like 'Minari Samgyeopsal' (grilled pork belly with minari), which is drawing long lines at restaurants in Tokyo's Korean town, Shin Okubo. This vegetable not only enhances the taste of meats by eliminating unpleasant odors but also helps to manage cholesterol levels due to its phytosterol content. Minari stew is also favored for its detoxifying properties, beneficial for hangovers. The number of restaurants serving minari dishes in Japan has increased by 4.2 times over the last decade. However, the reduction in Japanese minari farms is causing a supply decrease and price increase. Efforts are underway to encourage farming with subsidies, especially in regions like Miyagi Prefecture.