These are seeds from the Houkigi or Koshia scoparia plant, an Akita Prefecture regional specialty.
The black and green pearled seeds, 1 to 2 mm in diameter resemble fish eggs, with a very crunchy texture and a taste of broccoli and artichoke.
Nutritional value for 100gr of tonburi :
Calories 91Kcal
Proteins 5.6gr
Lipides 3.7gr
Carbohydrates 7.0gr
Sodium 2.6mg
Fibre 3.5gr
Iron 2.36mg
Potassium 179mg
Calcium 13.3mg
Vitamin B1 0.11mg
Vitamin B2 0.15mg
In Japan tonburi, has become an essential ingredient of the Akita Buddhist vegetarian Shojin-ryori cuisine. In Japan it is known as the "CAVIAR" of the fields.
It accompanies smoked fish ( salmon, eel, halibut, haddock ) or can be blended into a mayonnaise. It garnishes blinis and other savoury reductions…, it brings out all the taste of tofu, sashimi, soy sauce, miso… The secret of success is to season just before serving !
The crunchiness will surprise you.
