Omi Tea Genovese / 近江茶ジェノベーゼ

Inspired by the classic Italian pesto, this Japanese-style Genovese sauce is made with young tea leaves harvested in the mountains of Koka, Shiga Prefecture. The fresh tea leaves bring a distinctive herbal character, balanced with rice oil, walnuts, garlic, salt, and black pepper for a rich yet gentle flavor.

Shiga, once known as the Province of Omi, has a long history of tea cultivation and hand-processed tea production. This Genovese was created using edible tea leaves as a way to make use of former tea fields and support the restoration of Japan's traditional rural landscapes.

The mellow aroma of tea leaves and their subtle pleasant astringency blend naturally with the richness of the other ingredients, creating a sauce that is both savory and refreshing. Toss it with freshly cooked pasta, or enjoy it with somen noodles, grilled chicken, white fish, salads, toast, or even warm rice. It pairs comfortably with both Japanese and Western dishes.

Made without artificial preservatives or colorings, this sauce lets the natural character of Omi tea shine through. The tea leaves are harvested and processed through a local agriculture and social welfare collaboration, reflecting a community-based approach to tea production.

Product Info

Product Name: Omi Tea Genovese

Net Weight: 80 g

Ingredients: Rice oil (Japan), hand-picked Asamiya tea leaves (Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture), walnuts, tea leaf paste, fresh garlic, salt, black pepper

Allergen Information: Contains walnuts.

Suggested Uses: Toss with cooked pasta or somen noodles. Also pairs well with grilled chicken, white fish, salads, toast, or warm rice.

Storage Information: May be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight; however, refrigeration is recommended to preserve the best quality. After opening, keep refrigerated and enjoy as soon as possible.