まめぞう
In the past, when Shimada Shinsuke introduced a certain product on TV with his skillful storytelling, phone calls and online orders would immediately surge, causing the sellers to be both happy and overwhelmed. An example of this was the "Amattare Udon" from Miyagi. After Shimada Shinsuke retired in 2011, everyone wondered who would take on that role, and it turned out to be Matsuko Deluxe with her enthusiastic eating and straightforward compliments. Even now, the Tokyo Station Bento recommended by Matsuko in "Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai" is still unavailable. You could order smoked nuts, but you would receive an email saying it's uncertain when it will be shipped, and the package would arrive when you least expect it. This time, "Nabe no Moto" was featured on "Matsuko no Shiranai Sekai". On January 26th, while watching the show, I ordered the product online. Some items were already sold out. I managed to order a set of 5 Yuzusuko and 1 Norikuro in celebration of Kotoshogiku's victory. It turns out this shop is located in Yanagawa, the same hometown as Kotoshogiku. The next day, I received a message from the shop saying there would be a delay in delivery. I waited eagerly for 10 days until it arrived on February 4th! I immediately opened the Yuzusuko and Norikuro. Yuzusuko is a liquid version of Yuzu pepper made with Yuzu peel, vinegar, and chili pepper. Unlike regular Yuzu pepper which uses a lot of salt, this one is made with very little salt. On the other hand, Norikuro is a spread made with Ariake seaweed, sugar, and Yuzu. I tried Yuzusuko with dumplings and Norikuro with bread. Yuzusuko indeed has very little saltiness. The fragrance of Yuzu fills your mouth, followed by the spiciness of the chili pepper. Those who are used to the saltiness of Yuzu pepper might find it lacking, but its liquid form allows for various uses. Norikuro, as expected, has the base flavor of Nori tsukudani with added Yuzu flavor, sweetness, and spiciness. It goes well with bread. Both are priced at 540 yen per bottle. Give them a try if you're interested.