🍱 Osaka Shirona-no-karashiae (Osaka Napa Cabbage Mustard Pickle)

Osaka Shirona is said to be a hybrid of Santona or Chinese cabbage and Taisai. Cultivation began in the Edo period (1603-1867), and in the early Meiji period (1868-1912), it was actively cultivated near Tenmabashi in the center of Osaka City, hence the name "Tenmana". Toward the end of the Meiji period, cultivation spread to the Higashiyodogawa, Joto, and Sumiyoshi areas. There are three different strains: early, mid, and late varieties, all of which have a clear white petiole with a flat shaft. It is still harvested in fields in and around Osaka City, and has become a representative leafy vegetable of Osaka. It has a light, mild flavor, and becomes soft and tender when cooked. It is often used in dishes similar to Nappa cabbage and komatsuna. Osaka Shirona with spicy sauce is a perfect side dish with its refreshing flavor.