Japan’s Superfood used for Wagashi Changes World The world of Japanese sweets (wagashi) hides ingredients that are not only delicious but also beneficial for health. Among these, “kanten” (agar) stands out. While kanten has long been a staple in Japanese cuisine, it’s now emerging as a superfood perfectly aligned with modern health trends. Let’s delve […]
Azuki Beans: The Superfood at the Heart of Wagashi and Japanese Sweets Azuki beans are not just the star of wagashi and Japanese sweets; they’re also a hidden superfood deeply rooted in Japan’s culinary tradition. These small red beans are essential in creating many beloved Japanese desserts, while offering surprising nutritional benefits. Let’s explore the […]
The Intertwined History of Wagashi and Japanese Tea Japanese tea ceremony culture, refined over a long history, is today represented by three main schools. Known as the “Three Sen Houses” (Sansenke), these schools – Omotesenke, Urasenke, and Mushakojisenke – each have their unique practices and philosophies that shape Japanese tea culture. Omotesenke, founded by Sen […]
Sencha and Wagashi: Exploring the Refreshing Side of Japanese Sweets In the world of Japanese sweets and desserts, the pairing of sencha and wagashi offers a refreshing and subtle flavor experience. While matcha often takes the spotlight in discussions of Japanese tea and confectionery, sencha’s crisp taste creates a unique harmony with various types of […]
Matcha and Wagashi: The Heart of Japanese Sweets and Desserts In the world of Japanese sweets and desserts, the pairing of matcha and wagashi represents the pinnacle of culinary artistry. This quintessential combination not only delights the palate but also embodies centuries of Japanese cultural traditions. Let’s explore why these two elements of Japanese confectionery […]
Introduction of Wagashi Q&A Wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, are beloved by many people both in Japan and abroad. However, you may have many questions about their deep and complex world. In this article, we’ll answer common questions about wagashi while exploring their charm. Q1: What is Wagashi? Wagashi is a general term for traditional Japanese […]
Azuki Beans: The Foundation of Wagashi and Japanese Sweets Culture Azuki beans are an indispensable part of Japanese food culture. Their vibrant red color and distinctive flavor add both visual appeal and taste to many traditional sweets and dishes. However, the allure of azuki goes beyond mere taste. These small beans are deeply embedded in […]
The Fundamental Techniques of Wagashi Making Wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, have captivated many with their beautiful appearance and delicate flavors. Behind their exquisite taste and artistry lies the skill of artisans, honed over a long history. Today, we’ll focus on three basic techniques in wagashi making: steaming, kneading, and baking, exploring the characteristics and roles […]