Mochi

Mochi is a traditional Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice. The steamed rice is pounded into paste and molded into the desired shape. While eaten year-round, mochi is a traditional food for the Japanese New Year, and is commonly sold and eaten during that time. Although some might think that dango is mochi, mochi and dango are actually different as dango is made from rice flour. 

Mochi has been a part of Japanese culture since the Jomon period (14,000-300 BCE). The cultural significance of mochi in Japan is unique, though it has elements in common with other auspicious foods in other Asian countries. According to archaeological research, the homemade production of mochi increased beginning in the 6th century, when earthenware steamers became popular in every household, mainly in eastern Japan. The first recorded accounts of mochi being used as a part of New Year's festivities are from the Heian period. The nobles of the Imperial court believed that long strands of freshly made mochi symbolized long life and well-being.

Mochi has a subtle flavor and hence why it usually pairs with different fillings inside such as red bean and mango. My favorite flavor of mochi is matcha, which can be found in different types of Japanese restaurants or malls such as Don Don Donki and Sushi Go. 

Mochi has a lot of different types. Some popular variations of mochi are Daifuku mochi, mochi ice cream and yaki mochi. Daifuku mochi is your typical mochi, a classic sweet treat where mochi is filled with red bean paste, custard or fruits like strawberries. Daifuku mochi comes in many varieties and is quite popular in many countries. Another famous type of mochi is mochi ice cream. Despite mochi's long history, the invention of mochi ice cream is attributed to around 1981 when a Korean Company, Lotte, began selling the sweet as a special type of “snow viewing daifuku.” Mochi ice cream wraps a thin layer of mochi around creamy ice cream, offering a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures which enhances the flavor. Lastly, yaki mochi is a grilled mochi that develops a crispy outer layer while remaining soft and gooey inside. It’s often dipped in soy sauce for a savory bite. Some may opt for Yaki mochi as it's one of the healthiest mochis compared to the other two mentioned above.

You’re likely familiar with mochi, but what has caused its recent global popularity? Well in recent years, thanks to its unique texture and versatility, mochi has exploded in popularity outside Japan. From mochi donuts to mochi waffles, chefs worldwide are reimagining this traditional treat. Mochi ice cream has particularly gained traction, appearing in supermarkets and dessert menus globally. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have also contributed to mochi’s rise, with influencers showcasing the mesmerizing stretchiness of freshly made mochi or the vibrant colors of daifuku mochi.

Mochi is one of the best treats out there. Whether you enjoy it in its purest form, stuffed with decadent fillings, or paired with ice cream, mochi offers a sensory experience like no other. So next time you eat a mochi, be sure to savor every last bite.

Karissa Lee

Secondary 3 Grace

2025