In the spring through autumn, young buds from the Sansho tree can be picked while the tree still has leaves. These buds are particularly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. The flower of the Sansho tree is also edible and goes exceptionally well with grilled fish.
After the flowers have dropped, the lime green immature berry can be used for dishes boiled in soy sauce, cooked with dried young sardines, or pickled. As the berries mature, they turn red and are dried before being ground into a fragrant powder. This red Sansho pepper powder is a popular spice that is used to flavor many different dishes, including soups, stews, grilled meats, and seafood.
Overall, this is a versatile and unique spice that adds a delightful citrusy aroma and exciting spiciness to many different dishes in Japanese cuisine.