Kishu Ume Chicken and Ume Pork: Local Food Guide

Springing from an idea only a plum country could have, ume chicken and ume pork are raised with plum derived components in their feed. Centered on Tanabe, they are cherished as branded ingredients of Wakayama, fitting specialties of a land known as the finest plum country in Japan.

Highlights

The ume chicken is firm yet tender with a clean finish, while the ume pork carries fat that is never heavy and grows sweeter as you chew. It is a flavor of this land, nurtured by its plum culture. Beyond grilled dishes and hot pots, local restaurants sometimes serve it accompanied by plum.

Enjoying the Seasons

In summer, light seared chicken or chilled pork are refreshing, while in winter hot pots and simmered dishes let you savor the meat slowly. The cooking suited to each season brings out different sides.

Access and Basic Information

You can enjoy it at restaurants, butchers, and direct sale shops around Tanabe. Using JR Kii Tanabe Station as a base, look for places serving it as a local specialty. Visiting alongside the Minabe and Tanabe area, dotted with plum groves and direct sales shops, lets you enjoy a plum themed journey. Serving venues are limited, so confirming availability in advance is the surest way.

Practical Travel Notes

Ume chicken and ume pork are handled as Wakayama's branded chicken and pork at restaurants and butchers, but they are not served everywhere, so look up serving venues in advance if you are set on them. If you buy the meat itself, depending on your lodging's facilities you may be able to enjoy it on the spot. Tanabe is a major plum growing area whose Minabe-Tanabe Ume System is recognized as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System, so pairing your meal with souvenirs such as pickled plums or plum liqueur enriches the trip. Prices vary by dish and cut, but some shops offer casual, reasonably priced local fare.

A Quick Tip

First try it simply grilled with salt to confirm the meat's own character. Add a little plum and you can enjoy the natural affinity that only this region offers. Setting a little pickled plum alongside as a condiment is also recommended.