We found that Iberian pork is highly valued in Japan
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Category:On a journey around the world
Our export team will be returning shortly from Japan—yes, Japan, no less! They traveled there to attend a meat exhibition at the New Otani in Tokyo (Room Yu, Booth 12). Things are going very well because our Iberian pork is a key ingredient and a star of Japanese culinary culture. The Japanese people certainly appreciate the quality of Iberian pork and are therefore using it more and more in their cooking.
The various cuts of meat obtained from Iberian pork have great nutritional value and offer undeniable benefits to humans, not only because it is a very complete food that provides essential nutrients for the body, but also because it is very easy to digest, despite being a high-energy product. The Japanese highly value pork fat, the good kind, which adds great flavor and juiciness to their dishes.
These days we've had the opportunity to speak with many professionals in the sector in this part of the world, and we're delighted to see the great reception our exquisite Iberian pork is receiving. We've learned that there are many Japanese dishes featuring pork, and that they even eat it raw, like sashimi.
We've heard about 'tonkatsu'—breaded pork loin cutlets or chops deep-fried in very hot oil—which are served cut into pieces for easy eating with chopsticks. We've also been told that 'gyouza' are small dumplings of Chinese origin filled with minced pork and vegetables, served with a sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and a drop of chili-like hot oil. They're usually eaten in 'izakayas,' which are similar to Spanish taverns or bars, where a variety of dishes are served, like tapas.
And we have shown you one of the recipes of our godfather, chef Antonio Arrabal, with a clear Japanese influence: Tataki of Iberian acorn-fed pork shoulder with shiitake and pickled celeriac ( click here to find out the recipe ).
We're having a great time and learning a lot during our stay in Tokyo. And we admire the Japanese for their appreciation of good Iberian pork; they know a lot about healthy cooking, so... if they appreciate our Iberian meat... there must be a reason...
