Akebia: Yamagata's exotic fruit

The shape and size of these sweet fruits resemble papaya or mango, and their purple-lilac color makes them look like plums. Miracle fruits grow not on trees, but on vines. Almost like grapes or kiwi. This Japanese plant is called akebia. It is grown in gardens in the northern part of the island of Honshu. The liana blooms in May, and from the end of August to the end of October pleases with ripe and tasty fruits. When the akebia reaches maximum maturity, its skin breaks open to reveal a sticky, sweet pulp containing seeds.
More than half of the national akebia crop is harvested in Yamagata Prefecture. The ripe pulp of the fruit is eaten raw as a fruit. The thick, fleshy skin is often cooked over a fire like a vegetable, stuffed with mushrooms, miso sauce and other seasonings. Akebia buds and leaves are added to fried dishes. In addition, they are dried and brewed like tea. If you're in northern Honshu, be sure to try akebia!

🇯🇵Japan