Harvesting of Kyoto vegetable potatoes called "shrimp" has begun in Kyotanabe City, Kyoto Prefecture, because its curved shape and striped pattern resemble shrimp.
Kyoyasai shrimp is a type of taro that has a curved shape like shrimp and has a striped pattern on the skin. It is sticky and has a strong taste, and is used as an ingredient in New Year's dishes.
It is actively cultivated in the southern part of Kyoto Prefecture, and harvesting began on the 27th before the first auction on the 1st of next month in the 8 ares field of Mr. Sadayuki Okunishi of Kyotanabe City.
Mr. Okunishi cut the stems of potatoes that had grown to about 1 meter and 50 centimeters with a sickle, dug up the shrimp using a special tool, and carefully harvested them one by one.
This year, the growth of shrimp is delayed due to the short daylight hours in summer and the long rains, but the taste is good as usual.
Mr. Okunishi said, "It's a little small, but I'm hoping that it will grow a little more toward the New Year. I want you to taste the sticky and smooth texture of the shrimp."
Shrimp harvest continues until the end of the year.