Amaou strawberries are in the Rosaceae family.

Amaou strawberries are large, round and well-formed. Each Amaou strawberry weights about 1.6 ounces (45g) and the length is about 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) and its diameter is about 2.3 inches (6 cm). Their surface is glossy and red; they tend to be hollow inside. The acidity of the Amauo strawberry is slightly less then other strawberry varieties. This resulted sweetness combined with the Amaou strawberries large size give great enjoyment when devoured whole.

Nutritional Value

Amaou strawberries contain vitamin C that can help to prevent catching a cold and they can help to recover from fatigue. In addition, they contain anthocyanins that can reduce the active oxygen in the body which can help to prevent cancer.

Serving Ideas

Amaou strawberries are great for eating simply fresh. Because Amaou strawberries are aesthetically beautiful, they are used for decorating cakes in Japan. They are little more vigorous than other strawberries, therefore they are good for storing and transporting. Additionally, be sure the hull is fresh and green. The surface area that is near the hull may tend to crack when sugar content of Amaou strawberries reaches it's maximum. Store them in a plastic bag or a Ziploc bag without removing hulls, keep them in a refrigerator and eat them within a few days. Wash them right before you eat them since strawberries become weak when exposed to moisture.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

The name, Amaou is trademark registered by National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Associations in Japan.

Geography/History

Amaou strawberries were developed to replace Toyonoka strawberries and became the most popular strawberries in Japan. The name, Amaou comes from the first letter A from Akai (red), the first two letters MA from Marui (circle), the first letter O from Ookii (big) and the first letter U from Umai (tasty). Hence the name Amaou because they are red, round, big and sweet. Amaou strawberries are produced exclusively in Fukuoka prefecture. This controls their consistent high quality and helps maintain the status of Amaou strawberries' as a brand. Amaou strawberries are known throughout Asia and are exported to Hong Kong, China, Korea, the U.S., Russia, Thailand, Taiwan and Singapore.

Seasons/Availability

Amaou strawberries are available from winter to spring.