Tonburi

　

“Tonburi” is a processed seed of Houkigi (Kochia scoparia) and its plump and popping texture is similar to caviar so it is called "Caviar of the Field ". As the name suggests, the trunk and twigs are used as the materials for brooms.

It can only be grown in places that are not too windy as the seed will fall due to the strong wind. Furthermore, since a lot of water will be used for processing, during the era when the water supply was not widespread, tonburi could only be made in the land that was blessed with spring water.

Hinai area that was located on mountain valley had a perfect climate for the cultivation and processing of tonburi.

In 2017, it was registered in "Geographical Indication (GI) protection system" as "Odate Tonburi".
Tonburi is nutrient-rich and contains plenty of β-carotene, vitamins such as Vitamin A, dietary fiber, and minerals (calcium, iron, phosphorus). The gluten-free superfood quinoa and tonburi are the same family as Chenopodiaceae and are believed to be good at preventing lifestyle disease.

　

　【Location Around】

Hinaimachi Tokko, Odate City