Comment sont fabriqués les mochis japonais?

How are Japanese mochis made?

Japanese mochi are delicious traditional Japanese sweets that are loved around the world. These little sticky rice cakes are not only delicious, but also interesting to learn how Japanese mochi are made.

What is mochi?

Mochi is a traditional Japanese pastry made from ground glutinous rice and kneaded to a springy, chewy texture. It can be eaten alone or stuffed with a variety of fillings such as sweet bean paste (anko), fruit or cream.

steps of making japanese mochi

This is how Japanese mochi are made:

  1. Preparing sticky rice: Sticky rice, also called mochigome, is the base of mochi. It is first steamed until it becomes tender and sticky.
  2. Kneading the rice: The cooked rice is then transferred to a large wooden mortar called usu. Using a wooden mallet called a kine, it is vigorously kneaded until a smooth and elastic texture is obtained.
  3. Forming mochi: The kneaded glutinous rice is then shaped into small balls or special shapes, depending on preference. Traditionally, mochi are round and smooth.
  4. Mochi filling: Mochi can be filled with various flavors, such as sweet red bean paste called anko, sesame paste, or green tea paste. The filling is placed in the center of each mochi.
  5. Coating the mochis: The mochis are then delicately coated with corn starch or potato starch to prevent them from sticking together.
Mochis are enjoyed fresh and tender. They are often enjoyed during special celebrations in Japan, such as New Year or the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Simple recipe to make your own mochi at home

Now that you know how Japanese mochi are made, here is a simple recipe to make your own mochi at home:

Ingredients :

  • 200g glutinous rice flour (available in Asian grocery stores)
  • 100g powdered sugar
  • 200ml of water
  • Corn or potato starch (for dusting)
  • your garnish

Instructions :

  1. In a bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and powdered sugar.
  2. Gradually add the water while stirring until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous paste.
  3. Transfer the dough to a large microwave-safe bowl.
  4. Cover the bowl with perforated plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2 minutes.
  5. Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the dough vigorously with a spatula.
  6. Return the bowl to the microwave and cook again for 1 to 2 minutes, until the dough is translucent and elastic.
  7. Sprinkle a work surface generously with cornstarch or potato starch.
  8. Transfer the cooked dough to the starch-dusted surface and work it into a thick layer using a spatula.
  9. Divide the dough into small balls of the desired size.
  10. To stuff the mochi, flatten each dough ball slightly and place a small amount of filling in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and form smooth balls.
  11. Mochi can be eaten immediately or stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

You can experiment with different fillings to create your own variations of homemade mochi!

Conclusion

Now that you know how Japanese mochi are made, you can enjoy them with a better appreciation of their traditional preparation. You can also make your own at home!

If you would like to buy Japanese mochis, they are available at La Perle Sucrée: Japanese Mochis

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