This is the Koikeya Strong Abare Yaki Ume or ‘grilled plum’ flavour. It featured ridged potato chips flavoured with katsuobushi, umeshu, shiso, and salt.

The chips boasted a delicate pink seasoning, emitting a tantalizing scent that blended sour and savoury notes, reminiscent of a refined version of Western salt and vinegar chips. As the first bite was taken, it became apparent that these chips were crafted from thickly sliced and ridged potatoes, designed to offer an unparalleled crunchiness and ample surface area for the seasoning to shine. The undercurrent of umami richness derived from the katsuobushi was consistently present, accompanying each chip from its inception to its final crunch. Interplaying with this foundation was the distinct sourness of the ume, at times delivering a sharp acidity that varied based on the concentration of seasoning. Amidst each bite, the vibrant herbaceous flavour of shiso gracefully emerged, imbuing the chips with a layer of complexity and a heightened depth of flavour. Notably, the zesty shiso and piquant ume harmoniously offset any potential greasiness associated with fried potato chips, affording them a rejuvenating quality that rendered them irresistible, addictively delicious, and undoubtedly deserving of a repurchase.

This Koikeya Strong Abare Yaki Ume contained 52 g. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2023.