YUZU and YUZUSHU 💕🍋

Yuzu and Yuzu Shu: the Japanese yuzu liqueur that is conquering Switzerland

If you frequent Michelin-starred restaurants in Zurich or cocktail bars in Geneva, you will surely have noticed a name that is appearing more and more often: Yuzu. This mysterious citrus fruit, which looks like a "bruised" lemon but smells like an entire botanical garden, has become the new essential ingredient for chefs.

But what exactly is it, and why is Yuzushu (the liqueur derived from it) the drink that cannot be missing from your collection? Let's find out together.

🍋What exactly is yuzu? 🍋

Yuzu is a citrus fruit native to East Asia, used for centuries in Japan and now increasingly present in Europe. In Switzerland, however, it remains a rare and sought-after product, especially appreciated in high-level gastronomy.

It is a natural hybrid between the wild mandarin and the Ichang papeda. In Japan it is an institution: not only is it eaten, but it is even used in ritual hot baths for its relaxing properties and heavenly aroma.

Why is it special?

• Unique aromatic profile: Imagine a mix of lemon, grapefruit and mandarin, but with an intense floral note.

• Resistance: Unlike other citrus fruits, it is cold-resistant (down to -9°C!), which makes it precious and rare.

• Less acidic, more fragrant: Compared to lemon, it has less juice but a rind very rich in essential oils.

🍋 The "Chef's Secret": 100% Pure Yuzu Juice

If yuzu is the king of citrus fruits, pure juice is its crown. For those who wish to experience the versatility of this fruit without the alcoholic component, we have selected Daitoku Yuzu Juice.

Produced in Hyogo prefecture by a company with over 60 years of experience, this juice is 100% pure.

• No added sugars.

• No preservatives.

• Only the vibrant essence of the fruit.

It is a "few drops" ingredient: its aromatic intensity is such that a very small amount is enough to transform a normal fish dish, a marinade or a dessert into a Michelin-starred restaurant creation. It is also perfect for those who want to create their own non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails) or give a touch of exoticism to simple sparkling water.

🍶 Yuzushu: When Yuzu Meets Sake

Yuzushu is a Japanese liqueur belonging to the kajitsushu (fruit liqueurs) family, made from an alcoholic base (often sake), to which yuzu juice and rind are added.

It is important to clarify one point: even though it is often called “yuzu sake”, it is not a sake, but a liqueur.

🍋 Our Yuzushu in Switzerland: 2 different interpretations

At Kitsune Trading we have selected two labels that represent the best of Japanese artisanal production:

1. Kodakara Yuzu (Yamagata Prefecture): A masterpiece of intensity. It is produced with a base of fine Junmai Daiginjo and at least 15 fruits per bottle. It is ideal for those looking for a decisive, citrusy and persistent taste.

   View Kodakara Yuzu on Kitsune Trading

2. Tamanohikari Kyo no Yuzushu (Kyoto): Elegant and balanced, just like the city it comes from. It is a fresher and lighter Yuzushu, perfect for those who want to approach this world with a harmonious and never cloying sip.

   View Tamanohikari Yuzushu on the Shop

🥂 How to enjoy Yuzushu

Forget rigid rules. Yuzushu is pure versatility:

• The Modern Aperitif: Serve it On the Rocks (with plenty of ice) for a refreshing pre-dinner drink.

• Yuzu Spritz: Replace the classic aperitif with Yuzushu, add bubbles and a mint leaf. It's the summer party revolution!

• The Refined Digestif: Served cold in a wine glass at the end of a meal, it cleanses the palate and leaves an unforgettable aromatic trail.

• Warm in Winter: In Japan, it is customary to drink it diluted with hot water to combat the cold. An incredible treat.

🍴 Food Pairing: What do we pair it with?

Not just sushi! Yuzushu is an incredible companion for:

• Raw fish and Carpaccio: The acidity of the fruit enhances the sweetness of fresh fish.

• Fatty or Fried Foods: A tempura or a Swiss barbecue find in Yuzushu the perfect contrast to "cleanse" the palate.

• Spoon Desserts: Try it with a cheesecake or a fruit tart.

Conclusion

Whether you are a Japanese culture enthusiast or simply a lover of good drinks looking for something new, Yuzushu is an experience that deserves a place in your pantry.

[Explore our selection of Yuzushu on Kitsune Trading and receive Japan directly to your home in Switzerland.]