In Japan, rice dishes often called “〇〇 meshi”. The word “meshi” is just a different way to explain gohan (rice), but it can be imagined as something inexpensive and popular. Though what they are called is usually depending on the ingredient, you can probably imagine what is mainly added, for example, “ika meshi” (with squid), “tori meshi” (with chicken), and so on. However, there are also many cases that an adjective, the name of an area, or the name of the dishware is added in “〇〇” to describe the feature.
Wappa meshi is one of them that was named after the name of the dishware called “wappa”, and is a famous local dish in Aizu region, Fukushima Prefecture.
Features of wappa
Wappa or also called mage wappa (mage means rounded or curved), is a kind of lunch box made from wood, especially Japanese cedar or Japanese cypress. Craftsmen shave the wood materials into thin pieces and curve them into a round shape. Wappa is now known as a traditional craft that has been made in various regions in Japan from olden times.
The superior points of wappa
Japanese cedar and Japanese cypress are excellent in antibacterial effect so that they can prevent food from spoiling. Also, wooden materials absorb extra moisture that comes out of food which helps to keep the food delicious for a long time. Another good point is its refreshing aroma of the wood.
History of wappa meshi
One day in the Showa era, an owner of a restaurant decided to use wappa not only as a lunch box but also as cookware. He put cooked rice and add some ingredients on top of the rice, then steamed them altogether. This is how wappa meshi was born, and it has still been cooked in the same way. While the process of steaming up, all foodstuff in wappa become softer and even sweeter and give the rice a deeper flavour and tastiness.
By the way, the main ingredients vary depending on the restaurants but wild vegetables and mushrooms are often used. In addition to those, chicken or seafood such as crabs and salmon are popular ones.
Tsuruga Castle
Fukushima is famous for its historical sites, beautiful nature, and also has been one of the famous areas of rice farming. Wappa meshi represents such a land. While you are eating wappa meshi, you may be able to feel the richness of nature and the history of Fukushima.
