Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsNokaKagatsuru Umeshu' Recipe

Kagatsuru Umeshu' Recipe

Inspired by Noka
Time1h 30m
Serves4

digestif: tart plum, hibiscus, polished grains (3oz)

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Ingredients

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Plum Base

Hibiscus Infusion

Finishing Touches

Method

Preparing the Plum Base

  1. 1

    Prepare the Ume Plums

    Wash the ume plums thoroughly and remove the stems. Place them in a clean glass jar.

  2. 2

    Add Sugar

    Pour the granulated sugar over the ume plums in the jar, ensuring they are well-coated.

  3. 3

    Add Shochu or Vodka

    Pour the shochu or vodka into the jar, completely covering the plums and sugar. Seal the jar tightly.

  4. 4

    Infusion Period

    Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 1 month (up to 3 months) to allow the flavors to meld.

Hibiscus Infusion

  1. 5

    Boil Water

    In a saucepan, bring 500 ml of water to a boil.

  2. 6

    Steep Hibiscus Flowers

    Once the water is boiling, remove it from heat and add the dried hibiscus flowers. Cover and let steep for 15-20 minutes.

  3. 7

    Strain the Hibiscus

    After steeping, strain the hibiscus flowers from the liquid. Allow the infusion to cool to room temperature.

Finishing Touches

  1. 8

    Prepare the Polished Rice

    Rinse the polished rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions.

  2. 9

    Combine and Serve

    Once the ume plum infusion is ready, strain it to remove the plums. Mix the infused liquid with the hibiscus infusion and the cooked rice. Add honey if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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