Source: CCTV.com

03-06-2008 09:46

As the saying goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And personal taste might be summed up in similar fashion. In Japan, a simple green herb disdained by many is undergoing an unlikely surge in popularity.

Coriander, also known as cilantro and called "phakchi" by the Japanese, was first brought to Japan some 700 years ago - but many Japanese dislike its pungent flavour and aroma.

Coriander, also known as cilantro and called "phakchi" by the Japanese, was first brought to Japan some 700 years ago - but many Japanese dislike its pungent flavour and aroma.

Now, a growing number of coriander lovers are trying to spread their passion for the herb - planting their own coriander, swapping notes on the web, and dining at Tokyo's first coriander-featured restaurant.

The restaurant opened late last year, and of course every dish features coriander, from appetisers to desserts like coriander ice cream.

Kyo Satani, Paxi House owner, said, "I believe a lot of people actually love phakchi (coriander). But because those that dislike it tend to be vocal about it,they overshadow those that like it. But thanks to the Paxi House and the phakchi association I think those who love the herb can finally come out in the open."

Coriander, also known as cilantro and called "phakchi" by the Japanese, was first brought to Japan some 700 years ago - but many Japanese dislike its pungent flavour and aroma.

The restaurant buys about 10 kilograms of coriander weekly from a farm in Chiba prefecture.

And more and more Japanese are growing it at home.

 

Editor:Liu Fang