Ukogi

Eleutherococcus sieboldianus

leaf · vegetable

Bitter young leaves of a thorny shrub, mixed into rice or blanched in salads.

Origin

China, grown in Japan

Where to find it

In Yamagata Prefecture, it is still planted as a hedge, and its shoots are sold in spring at local markets.

Season (United States)

April to May

Preparation

The tender shoots are picked, avoiding the thorns, then blanched for a minute and chopped.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · Chlorophyll

Did you know?

In Yonezawa, an 18th-century lord had hedges of it planted: they protected houses and fed families.