Shiroishi Umen Thin Wheat Noodles

Shiroishi umen are thin noodles handed down in Shiroishi, a castle town in southern Miyagi. Unlike ordinary somen, they use no oil in their making, which is their great feature and is said to make them gentle on the stomach. Their short length also makes them easy to handle. Said to have been born from a tale of filial devotion, they are loved as a warm-hearted local food.

Highlights

The highlight of Shiroishi umen is the smooth throat feel achieved without oil. Their light flavor lets you enjoy the taste of the broth to the full. Enjoying them in warm broth is the standard, but in summer they are also delicious served cold. Adding walnut sauce or an assortment of toppings shows the touch of each shop, another pleasure.

Enjoying the Seasons

Because they can be enjoyed both hot and cold, Shiroishi umen are a dish for all year round. In cold winter warm broth heats the body, and in hot summer a cold serving is light and refreshing. Being gentle on the stomach, they suit a meal when you want to be kind to your body. The charm is choosing a way to eat that fits the season.

Access and Basic Information

Shiroishi is reached from Shiroishizao Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen or Shiroishi Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line. Diners and local cuisine restaurants in town serve umen, and dried noodles are widely sold at souvenir shops. Pairing it with a visit to Shiroishi Castle lets you enjoy the food culture of the castle town.

A Quick Tip

First taste them simply in warm broth to feel the throat feel of the noodles themselves. Dried noodles for souvenirs are easy to prepare, so you can recreate the castle town taste at home. Be sure to try local styles such as the walnut sauce as well.