Umesu - Plum Vinegar, Ume Hikari Corp., Japan

They call themselves the Ume Boys (Plum Boys), a group of young Japanese men who have joined forces to continue a traditional ume plantation. Their ume trees grow in Wakayama Province, renowned throughout Japan for their high-quality ume. This additive-free plum vinegar has the aroma of fully ripened fruit and shiso. Umesu is not only acidic but also salty. In Japan, this byproduct of umeboshi (plum brandy) has always been valued as a foodstuff. It`s used in dressings, pickles, and as a marinade for karaage (deep-fried chicken), which has become popular in Germany as well, and other marinades. Mixed with olive oil, it`s delicious with fish carpaccio. It`s also an exciting addition to cocktails.