If there were a nationality for desserts, then traditional Japanese would adorn that nationality with sophistication and taste.
Wagashi refers to these tasty morsels and they are far more than simple sugar and spice – they are decorated artistry, seasonal creations and years of traditional therapy.
Well, wagashi is just what you need no matter if you like light or heavy dishes or just are keen on sweets.
What makes Wagashi Unique among the Desserts?
Wagashi is not only a dish, but it is also a tradition, a culture, and an art that people savor and cherish.
They originate from Japan and are generally symbolic of change in seasons, festivity or occasions, and sometimes, tales as well. These are typically eaten with matcha, as the bitter undertaste of the tea is nicely complemented by the sweet taste of the mochi.
Fun fact: Did you know that some wagashi patterns are based on natural things such as cherry blossoms or autumn leaves?
Each bite of wagashi is made to be enjoyed with your eyes initially, then your palate. It’s like eating art—a treat for the senses!
Traditional Japanese Sweets That Will Surely Convince You to Try Them!
- Mochi
Soft and smooth, extremely moist and somewhat chewy, mochi is the king of kigaku-gashi, traditional Japanese confectionery. This is prepared from glutinous rice which has been mashed in a flat mortar, and may be filled with anko (red bean paste) or ice cream or any modern deviations.
Mochi is always exciting whether in the pink package for spring or green tea-flavored package for matcha lovers. But what many people are not aware of is just how broadly mochi can be used; it can be incorporated in soups, desserts, and even paired with meat in Japanese meals.
- Dorayaki
Dorayaki is basically a sweet treat and if pancakes could marry dessert, then dorayaki would be the result. This soft and light food is made of two small ‘cakes’ done like pancakes, filled with sweet red bean paste.
It also is a favorite snack of a certain blue robotic cat – yes you guessed it right – Doraemon. However, do not be deceived by its association with cartoons; dorayaki is sweet for all ages.
- Yokan
Yokan is a simple jelly made of red bean paste, sugar, and agar and can certainly be the dessert for those who do not like many frills. Due to its clean taste and beautiful appearance, It is loved by people who perform the tea ceremony.
Present day yokan varieties exist in green tea, sweet potato and even chestnut kinds. That is why it works great for gifting or just saving for a long time and gradually enjoying the cookies.
- Manju
Manju is a cute steamed bun with a sweet filling, usually red bean or green tea flavored. These are a favorite during festivals and brings that comfort feeling each time you take a bite of it.
Manju’s roots are deeply embedded in China, did you know? This bun was taken by the Japanese and over time adapted to give it the present rich taste and texture that we enjoy.
- Nerikiri
It is worth expressing nerikiri as the uppermost rank of wagashi. It is a type of wagashi that is created from sweet white bean paste and glutinous rice flour is molded into some form of shape to symbolize season, festivals or nature.
To be honest it looks tastefully delicious and almost too cute to eat. Still, the moment you will put it in your mouth, you will not be able to stop and do you really need to?
Modern Takes on Traditional Japanese Sweets
Although wagashi’s conception is that it reflects tradition, that tradition has been revived and revitalized through technological advancement.
Here’s how:
- Mochi Ice Cream:
This is a famous dessert available worldwide and comprises a tasty ice cream covered by a soft mochi coating. This is something that has gone viral and has become quite popular worldwide.
- Dorayaki Sandwiches:
Some shops have even decided to do variations of dorayaki fillings such as custard, whipped cream and even fresh fruits.
- Matcha Everything:
Confectionery with Matcha taste such as manju and yokan are popular with the old generation as well as new generation consumers.
How Can You Experience Wagashi Today?
Craving a taste of tradition? You don’t need to book a flight to come and learn Japanese culture and traditions.
Why Wagashi Is More Than a Dessert
More deeply and fundamentally, wagashi is about creating a relationship with nature, the seasons, and even with people.
And it is for this reason that these, the traditional Japanese sweets, have managed to last through these centuries.
Whenever you are biting into a mochi, a yokan or even a nerikiri, one cannot fail to feel that they are part of Japanese Heritage. And let’s admit it, life is too short to have tasteless meals therefore; tasty desserts must be prepared.
Ending on a Sweet Note
In terms of aesthetic and flavors, wagashi demonstrates that desserts do not always have to be associated with indulgence but with an experience. Well, why not sprinkle a little happiness into your lives?
Take a deep look into the Japanese wagashi and find out why people can’t help but adore these kinds of sweets.
Whether consumed with a hot green tea matcha or bought for someone special, this wagashi is definitely one to remember.