This year, too, the “potato stew season,” a typical autumn event in Yamagata Prefecture, has arrived, and we have compiled a list of its attractions and ways to enjoy it.
What is a potato stew party?
The “Imoni” party is an autumn event held in Yamagata Prefecture and other parts of the Tohoku region, where everyone enjoys imoni (stewed potatoes stewed in a large pot).
There are various theories as to its origin, but it is said to have started with the custom of gathering by the river or in the open air and serving stewed dishes using seasonal ingredients as a harvest festival or thanksgiving after the rice harvest has been completed since ancient times.
In Yamagata Prefecture in particular, the festival is a grand gathering of not only family and friends, but also colleagues at work and the local community.
A potato stew party where participants enjoy cooking in nature in the clear autumn air is an irresistible attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.
I have fond memories of enjoying this “sweet potato stew party” as a school event when I was a child 😊.
Difference between Inland and Shonai of Imoni
Imoni is cooked and seasoned differently in the inland and Shonai regions within Yamagata Prefecture.
Both are well-known as local delicacies, and for first-time visitors to Yamagata, both are a must-try.
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Inland taro stew (soy sauce based)
In the inland region centering on Yamagata City, soy sauce-based imoni with beef is the standard.
It features taro, konnyaku, and scallions, plus a broth seasoned with soy sauce.
The rich broth that infuses the flavor of the beef and the taro that has been simmered in the soup are perfectly balanced, creating a simple yet memorable flavor.
It is often topped off with grilled rice balls or udon noodles to warm the body and soul.
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Shonai's sweet potato stew (miso-based)
On the other hand, imoni in the Shonai region is miso-based with pork.
Compared to the Inland taro stew, this one is characterized by the rich flavor of miso and is more robustly seasoned.
Taro, konnyaku, and leeks are the same, but the variety of vegetables may be increased.
One particularly interesting point is that the flavor of miso in Shonai varies slightly from region to region, so there are subtle differences in flavor from place to place.
How to enjoy a potato stew party
A potato stew party is not just a meal, but an outdoor experience itself, spent in nature. Follow the steps below to enjoy a fulfilling sweet potato stew party.
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site selection
First, potato stew parties are held in spacious places such as riverside or parks. Riversides are especially popular because they allow the use of fire. In the Shonai area, there are many great spots to hold a potato stew party, such as riverside areas and campgrounds, so please check them out! -
Material Preparation
The essential ingredients for imoni are taro, konnyaku, green onions, and meat. In Shonai, miso, pork, and even seasonal vegetables are sometimes added. Procure fresh ingredients from local supermarkets or direct sales outlets. The taste of taro stew is enhanced by using local ingredients. -
Prepare outdoor gear
A large pot and stove are essential for a potato stew party.
Originally, potato stew parties were held by going to the riverside to build a stove by lining up stones of the right size and cooking potato stew over firewood brought by the participants, but recently many people seem to bring their own stoves.
Incidentally, local supermarkets sell potato stew sets at this time of year, and by purchasing a set of necessary ingredients, they offer a free rental service of a large pot for stewing potatoes and an iron plate for barbecuing. This is a very nice service because there is no need to buy a large pot! -
Simmer stewed taro
Put the ingredients in a large pot and simmer thoroughly. The flavor of beef and pork will melt into the soup, and combined with the sweetness of vegetables, a savory aroma will rise. The moment when everyone gathers around to eat the simmered sweet potato stew is a special moment. -
Finish with udon or soba.
If there is leftover soup from the taro stew, we recommend adding udon or soba noodles to finish it off. The broth overflowing from the vegetables and meat will be effective, and you will enjoy it to the last drop.
Spots where you can enjoy a potato stew party even on a rainy day.
Guesthouse Watabagi can be reserved for private parties from 12 people.
If you rent out a taro stew party with your friends, family, and relatives, you don't need to be reserved for anyone!
Moreover, it is safe even if it rains!
Of course, spending time outdoors in nature is wonderful, but unfortunately, when it rains, we have to suddenly stop.
I think that an indoor potato stew party without such risks is also an effective option to keep everyone's busy schedules from getting out of order.
Banquet as it is after the sweet potato stew party
For a sweet potato stew party with children with your family of friends, we recommend Guest House Watasagi.
After everyone has enjoyed a potato-noodle stew party, you can continue to enjoy the adult party even after the children have gone to bed!
Glad you don't have to worry about your return 😊.
summary
The “Imoni” (stewed potatoes) party, a symbol of autumn in Yamagata Prefecture, is a luxurious event where you can enjoy the different flavors of the inland and Shonai areas. Spending time with family and friends around the stewed potatoes will be a special memory.
Please use Guesthouse Watasagi when you have a potato stew party in Shonai area 💕.
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