Ume Paste – Puréed "Salt Plums"

Ume paste (Japanese Umeboshi) is a traditional seasoning in Japanese cuisine with an unmistakable explosion of flavor: intensely sour, zesty-fruity, and pleasantly salty.

For this fine paste, Ume apricots (often referred to as salted plums) are pickled with sea salt and delicate shiso leaves in the traditional manner, aged, and then puréed into a velvety cream. Shiso not only gives the paste its characteristic deep red color, but also adds a subtle herbal note.

Usage Tips:

• As seasoning: Perfect for tuning dressings, sauces, marinades, and dips.
• For sushi & rice: A classic filling for onigiri (rice balls) or for refining maki rolls.
• As a spread: Adds a refreshing, tangy acidity to butter, cream cheese, or grilled vegetables.
• In the kitchen: An ideal, natural substitute for vinegar or lemon juice with an extra kick of umami.