''Beef seasoned with soy sauce'' is a Yamagata flavor

When the autumn tourist season arrives in Yamagata City, people gather with friends on riverbanks and parks and hold ''Imoni-kai.'' This time we will introduce such outdoor local gourmet food.　

''Yamagata Imoni'' is a slightly sweet soup based on soy sauce with plenty of beef, konnyaku, green onions, and the main ingredient, taro. Depending on the person making it, they may add mushrooms or root vegetables. The Yamagata style is to add the curry roux and udon noodles after eating the ingredients and make "imoni curry udon". Around this time of year, supermarkets in the city begin to rent out "imoni sets" that include pots and ladles.

Actually, the above-mentioned "Imoni Party" is an annual autumn event that is held not only in Yamagata Prefecture but also in various parts of Tohoku. The reason why ''Imoni equals Yamagata'' is so strong nationwide is probably because ''Imoni with beef in soy sauce'' has a strong, unique flavor that is unlike any other dish. However, even within Yamagata Prefecture, in the Shonai region and neighboring Miyagi Prefecture, ''Imoni'' has a completely different taste, with ''Miso-flavored pork filling''. Comparing the differences in taste from region to region can be said to be a fun part of the imoni party.