Umeboshi, those tiny, tangy Japanese pickled plums, can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Their unique flavor is a delightful mix of salty, sweet, and sour that adds a zing to everything they touch. Let’s explore some simple yet delicious recipes that will have your taste buds dancing!
Umeboshi Rice Balls

These rice balls, or onigiri, are perfect for a quick snack or a packed lunch. The umami flavor of the umeboshi brings a delightful burst of flavor to the fluffy rice.
- 2 cups cooked short-grain rice
- 4 umeboshi plums, pitted and mashed
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Nori sheets, cut into strips (optional)
- Salt, to taste
What makes these rice balls special is their simplicity and versatility. You can shape them into triangles or balls, making them fun for kids and adults alike. Plus, the umeboshi filling adds a delightful surprise in every bite, perfect for those who enjoy a little tanginess in their meals!
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Umeboshi Salad Dressing


Pickled Plum Dressing from The Japanese Kitchen
Ingredients: Soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, umeboshi paste, vegetable oil

Ume Dressing from Marc's Recipes
Ingredients: Soy sauce, dijon mustard, olive oil Total Time: 5 min.

Umeboshi Dressing from The Passionate Pantry
Ingredients: Honey, rice vinegar, olive oil, umeboshi paste, sea salt Total Time: 5 min.
Add a zesty twist to your salads with this quick and easy dressing that highlights the bold flavor of umeboshi. It’s creamy, tangy, and oh-so-delicious!
- 2 umeboshi plums, pitted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This dressing is a game changer for all salad lovers! It brings a delightful balance of sweet and sour that can elevate even the simplest greens. Drizzle it over your favorite veggies, and watch your salads go from boring to totally amazing!
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Umeboshi Glazed Roasted Vegetables


Umeboshi Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Tahini Ginger Dip from Jamie Geller
Ingredients: Japanese sweet potato, green beans, tahini, honey, toasted sesame oil Total Time: 55 min.

Vegan Yakisoba Recipe with Umeboshi from Cinnamon Snail
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Lotus root, ramen noodles, oyster sauce, broccoli, soy sauce Total Time: 28 min.

Umeboshi Gohan (梅干しご飯) — Pickled Plum Rice from La Fuji Mama
Ingredients: White rice, white sesame seeds, uncooked rice, per cup
Roasting vegetables is a fantastic way to enhance their natural sweetness, and when you add umeboshi glaze, you get a flavor explosion! This dish is colorful, healthy, and incredibly satisfying.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, etc.)
- 2 umeboshi plums, pitted and minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Black sesame seeds, for garnish
This recipe is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect side dish for any dinner. The umeboshi glaze adds a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the roasted veggies. It’s a great way to sneak in some nutrients while satisfying your taste buds!
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Umeboshi Chicken Marinade
This marinade will take your chicken to the next level. The salty and tart flavors of umeboshi create a tender and juicy dish that’s perfect for grilling or baking.
- 4 chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 umeboshi plums, pitted and mashed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
What makes this marinade so special is how it infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist. After marinating for just a couple of hours, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with umami goodness. Serve it with a side of rice or veggies, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress!
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Umeboshi Miso Soup
This comforting soup combines traditional miso flavors with the unique tang of umeboshi. It’s warm, nourishing, and perfect for chilly days!
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons miso paste
- 2 umeboshi plums, pitted and minced
- 1/2 cup tofu, cubed
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly good for your health. The umeboshi adds a unique flavor that enhances the traditional miso taste, making it a must-try for soup lovers. It’s quick to prepare and will warm you from the inside out!