🍚 Kuri Gohan(=Chestnut rice)

One of Kyoto's specialties is the "Tamba Kuri (chestnut)" harvested in the Tamba region. "Tamba Kuri" does not refer to a specific variety but rather to chestnuts grown in the Tamba region. The history of these large and sweet chestnuts dates back to ancient times, with the name "Tamba Kuri" mentioned in the "Engishiki (set of ancient Japanese governmental regulations)." They were consumed among the nobility from around the Heian period. Even during the Edo period, they were highly valued and presented as offerings to the shogunate and imperial court. The Tamba Kuri continues to be recognized nationally as a branded chestnut. The Tamba region, surrounded by mountains and forming a basin, experiences significant temperature differences between day and night. The presence of rivers flowing through the mountains and fertile soil contribute to ideal conditions for enhancing the sweetness of crops, including chestnuts. In the Tamba region, various cooking methods have been employed for chestnuts, such as boiled, roasted, and candied chestnuts, enjoyed since ancient times. "Kuri Gohan" (chestnut rice) is also a beloved way to savor chestnuts. This dish involves adding "Tamba Kuri" to rice seasoned with a bit of salt, highlighting the sweetness of the chestnuts and making it an essential autumn specialty.