Hello, how are you all doing? Here we will introduce delicious food from Japan.
【history】
The history of wagashi (Japanese sweets) is very old, and prototypes of these sweets already existed during the Nara to Heian periods. At that time, rice- and grain-based dumplings and mochi, as well as fruits and nuts, were called “sweets,” and sugar was still a rare commodity. Sweetness mainly came from honey or the natural sweetness of fruits.
During the Muromachi to Azuchi-Momoyama periods, sugar was introduced to Japan through trade with the Nanban (southern barbarians), and with the development of the tea ceremony culture, there was a demand for refined sweets suitable for tea gatherings.
In the Edo period, sugar distribution increased, allowing ordinary people to enjoy sweet treats as well. Many types of wagashi that continue to the present day, such as manju, yokan, senbei, and rakugan, were created.
Wagashi has grown as a uniquely Japanese sweet culture, deeply connected with:
Buddhism, the tea ceremony, and annual events,
The changing seasons,
Celebrations and gift-giving traditions.
【characteristic】
Wagashi is a very delicate world where ingredients, appearance, seasonal feeling, and storytelling all come together.
Gentleness of ingredients
The focus is on natural ingredients such as azuki beans, rice, mochi, kanten, kudzu, chestnuts, and sugar.
Enjoying the lingering sweetness
Unlike Western sweets, which are rich with butter or cream, wagashi is characterized by an elegant sweetness that fades gently.
Strong sense of season
Many designs reflect the seasons, such as cherry blossoms, fresh leaves, autumn leaves, and snow. The element of ‘visual enjoyment’ is very significant.
Designed to pair with tea
The sweetness and texture are adjusted with the intention of being enjoyed with matcha, sencha, hojicha, and other teas.
Stories in the names and shapes
Many names, such as ‘Hanami Dango,’ ‘Tsukimi Dango,’ ‘Chidori Manju,’ and ‘Monaka,’ are inspired by events, landscapes, or auspicious meanings.
【category】
■Homemade curry
How was it? There are still many delicious things in Japan.
Be sure to try it when you visit Japan.
Let’s Enjoy！
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