Owner of Dejima.store and main contributor of Dejima blog. Marketing specialist born in Japan. #foodie #traveler #wine_connoisseur
Azuki Beans: The Hidden Health Powerhouse in Wagashi When you think of wagashi, Japanese traditional sweets, you might imagine beautifully crafted confections with a delicate sweetness. But did you know that the main ingredient, azuki beans, has surprising health benefits? Let’s delve into the hidden nutritional power of azuki beans and how they contribute to […]
Wagashi: The Hidden Health Benefits Beyond Sweetness When people think of wagashi, many imagine sweets made with lots of sugar. Indeed, wagashi are known for their exquisite taste, but hidden behind this sweetness are unexpected health benefits. While wagashi are generally not considered healthy treats, this isn’t always the case. Let’s take a closer look […]
Azuki Varieties: The Secret Behind Wagashi and Japanese Sweets Diversity Azuki beans are the heart and soul of wagashi, the traditional Japanese sweets that have delighted palates for centuries. These small red beans play a crucial role in creating the distinct flavors and textures of numerous Japanese desserts. From the smooth anko in daifuku to […]
Kuzu mochi and Kuzu mochi: Two Traditional Japanese Sweets with the Same Name but Different Origins Exemplifying the richness of Japanese confectionery culture, there exist two entirely different sweets that share the same pronunciation: “kuzu mochi.” One is the “kuzu mochi” (葛餅) from the Kansai region, and the other is the “kuzu mochi” (くず餅) from […]
Uiro: A Traditional Japanese Sweet with Unique Transparency and Soft Texture Uiro is a traditional Japanese confection loved by many for its unique translucent appearance and soft texture. While it may seem simple at first glance, its history is deep and closely intertwined with Japanese culture. Let’s explore the charm of this unique wagashi. The […]
Castella: Japan’s Beloved Foreign Flavor Castella might appear to be a Western-style cake at first glance, but delving into its history reveals that it is, in fact, a genuine Japanese wagashi (traditional sweet). Following the start of Nanban trade, the baking culture using wheat, eggs, and sugar introduced from the West underwent a unique evolution […]
Obuse’s Exquisite Chestnut Wagashi and the Artistic Legacy of Hokusai Obuse, a small town in Nagano Prefecture, is renowned for its unique culture that blends chestnut confectionery traditions dating back to the Edo period with the legacy of the ukiyo-e artist Hokusai Katsushika. Let’s explore the charm of Obuse, where the aroma of chestnuts mingles […]
Yokan: The Silent Taste of Japanese Tradition In the world of Japanese confectionery, there are many exquisite creations that embody the beauty of the four seasons and deep historical roots. Among these, “Yokan” stands out as a particularly remarkable presence. Today, we’ll delve deep into the world of Yokan, a seemingly simple sweet that encapsulates […]