【Koyomi】 May 29, 2024

Seasonal Vegetables｜Broad Beans
旬の野菜｜ ソラマメ（そら豆）

This year, my broad beans were completely wiped out because I couldn't remove the aphids in time. The COVID-19 pandemic has made things difficult since, unlike when I could visit the garden during lunch breaks while working from home, I couldn’t manage them well. The header photo is from 2022.

今年のソラマメはアブラムシの除去が間に合わず、全滅しました。コロナ禍で在宅勤務が続き、昼休みにちょくちょく畑に行けた時の様にはうまくいきませんでした。ヘッダーの写真は2022年のものです。

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Understanding the Seasonality and Harvesting of Broad Beans

Broad beans, known as "ソラマメ" in Japanese, have their peak season in May and June. They are ready to harvest approximately 35 to 40 days after flowering. Interestingly, the name "ソラマメ" comes from the appearance of young pods that seem to look up at the sky. As they mature, they begin to hang down and turn black, signaling that it's time to harvest.

ソラマメの旬と収穫について

ソラマメの旬は5月から6月です。開花後35〜40日頃が収穫の適期となります。莢が若いときは空を見上げている姿から「ソラマメ」という名前が付けられました。熟してくると莢が下にさがり、黒くなってきた頃が収穫の目安です。

The Importance of Freshness

Freshness is crucial for broad beans. There is a saying, "Broad beans last for three days," which means they are best consumed within three days of harvest. Their flavor and texture significantly diminish after this period, so it’s important to enjoy them as fresh as possible.

ソラマメの鮮度の重要性

ソラマメは鮮度が命の野菜です。「ソラマメ3日」という言葉があり、収穫してから3日しかもたないと言われています。この期間を過ぎると風味と食感が大きく損なわれるため、できるだけ新鮮なうちに楽しむことが大切です。

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Broad Beans

Broad beans can be enjoyed in various ways. While they are delicious when boiled with salt, toasting them in a toaster also brings out their delightful flavor. The fluffy texture and sweet taste are best highlighted with a bit of salt. They make an excellent side dish or snack, perfect for any occasion.

ソラマメの美味しい食べ方

ソラマメは塩茹でも美味しいですが、トースターで焼くとさらに美味しさが引き立ちます。ホクホクした食感と甘い旨味をしっかり引き出すためには、塩で食べるのがおすすめです。副菜やおつまみに最適です。