Mochi is a traditional Japanese treat made from sticky rice that has been a symbol of luck and prosperity for centuries.
Today, fortunately, Mochi is available in every Sushi & Sashimi bar/restaurant, although that does not mean it is equally unforgettable everywhere. Only true and experienced sushi chefs know the secret of a dessert that will put the “icing on the cake” of a perfect sushi meal.
Let’s skip the empty words and get to the very heart of this sushi delicacy. Mochi is essentially a traditional Japanese cake made from sticky (glutinous) rice, known as mochigome. The rice is basically cooked and then pounded until it becomes a thick, elastic, and smooth mass, shaped into small cakes or balls. Mochi was originally associated with the Shinto custom of mochitsuki (pounding rice dough) and in Japan it was prepared for special occasions such as New Year, weddings, and festivals….
Its elasticity symbolized long life and happiness, and today Mochi represents a direct cultural connection to distant Japan wherever it is enjoyed. Although mochi originates from China, it has been associated with Japan for centuries, where it was a privilege of the wealthy during the Yayoi period.
The division of mochi goes something like this:
Basic mochi:
– characterized by a neutral, slightly sweet taste.
– It is often eaten on its own or as an addition to dishes (e.g., in ozoni soup for the New Year)
Daifuku mochi:
– This is mochi filled with a sweet filling, most often red bean paste, black sesame, or peanut.
– Some are also filled with strawberry filling
Mochi ice cream:
– A modern variant in which a scoop of ice cream is placed inside a thin layer of mochi dough.
To increase their visual appeal, mochi balls are often coloured with edible dyes. Preparing mochi is a lengthy process of grinding cooked rice, usually of the mochigome variety, until it becomes a thick, homogeneous mass, which is then shaped into small, delicious balls. Mochi is truly a finger-licking dessert, but keep in mind that it is also quite high in calories, so a serving of 3 pieces per person is just the right amount to sweeten your day!
Visit us at Fukuro Sushi & Sashimi Bar, where we are already preparing mochi like you’ve never dreamed of!
