How To Make Nejiri Ume

1. Peel and slice a carrot crosswise into coins about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick.
2. Use a vegetable cutter to punch out plum flower shapes from the carrot slices. Reserve the carrot scraps for another use (see below). Now, carve the petals to create a three-dimensional effect. For each petal, use the tip of your knife to make a ⅛-inch (3-mm) slit tracing the curved outline of a petal.
3. Place your knife's edge on the middle of the petal to the right. Angle the knife back and cut toward the slit, shaving off a small piece of the petal. Repeat to carve the rest of the petals.
4. Flip over the carrot slice. Repeat on the other side, and you‘re done!

How to Use Carrot Scraps

1. Mince the leftover carrot scraps and use them for cooking Spaghetti Meat Sauce or Fried Rice.