JETRO is11MoonTenRecife, the capital of the state of Pernambuco in the northeastern part of Brazil, which is rapidly developing as a modern coastal industrial city and is attracting attention as a tourist destination for its beautiful coastline. A tasting party was held for the purpose of research.
Although there are few Japanese companies operating in Recife, stores that handle Japanese food have taken root in the area, and there are also high-end Japanese restaurants that mainly serve sushi. Because there is no locally produced Japanese wagyu beef and little experience of eating Japanese polished rice, not only restaurants and retailers but also consumers have low awareness of each product. Therefore, by holding such events, JETRO aims to arouse the interest of more businesses and consumers, expand the market, and lead to an increase in exports from Japan.
The tasting event was held at the official residence of the Consul General of Japan in Recife at the Pernambuco State Bar and Restaurant Association Abracel (ABRASEL) Vice President, Pernambuco State Commercial Association President, famous restaurant chef, Globo (GLOBO)” and journalists from “Folha” magazine. A staff member of the JETRO Sao Paulo office explained the difference between Japanese Wagyu beef and foreign Wagyu beef. Information was provided on the background of the high price of Japanese Wagyu beef.
During the tasting session, the chef of the Ambassador’s residence proposed and introduced an elaborate way of eating. The stewed dish that brought out the full flavor of wagyu beef was popular with the participants. In addition, the sweet and salty wagyu beef and special hand-made noodle dish, and the wagyu beef and rice bowl dish were also highly evaluated. In addition, a specially made sauce was introduced for steamed wagyu beef, assorted beef cutlet and Brazilian vegetables, and the voices of admiration from the participants continued to rise.
A participant who tasted Japanese Wagyu said, “I was surprised at the softness of Japanese Wagyu.2~3It is possible to offer it at twice the price.” On the other hand, “Because it is a luxury ingredient, it is served in restaurants for high-income people, and it is not eaten on a daily basis, but on special occasions. Wagyu beef is expensive. It is also important for consumers to understand the explanation,” said one commenter.
Regarding the polished rice, he commented, “I thought that all Japonica rice in Brazil was polished in Japan, but today I ate Japanese polished rice for the first time and felt it was very delicious. At the same time, I recognized the difference in taste.” .