Drying Zenmai (royal fern) under sunlight

Zenmai (royal fern) is one of the most famous wild vegetable of this region in spring. As this wild vegetable cannot be consumed raw due to its harsh taste, locals sundry the vegetable to preserve it for the bitter winter days. The dried Zenmai is rehydrated in lukewarm water before cooking. It is a staple preserved food for the people of Tsuruoka and it is also served in Shojin Ryori.