17 Japanese Kohakutou Candy Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
Japanese kohakutou candy, also known as crystal sugar candy, is a popular traditional treat in Japan. Made from just a few simple ingredients, this candy is loved for its unique texture and delicate sweetness. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and ingredients of kohakutou candy, as well as provide a step-by-step recipe for you to make your own at home.
If you're looking for a delicious and flavorful way to prepare chicken, look no further than Japanese Pork Katsu. This recipe takes your traditional beer can chicken to a whole new level with the addition of Japanese flavors and techniques.
To make this dish, you'll need a whole chicken, a few spices, and some Japanese panko breadcrumbs. First, season the chicken with a blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to infuse it with delicious Asian flavors. Then, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, which will give it a crispy and crunchy exterior.
Next, place the chicken on top of a beer can and roast it in the oven until it's juicy and tender. The beer will add moisture and flavor to the chicken, making it even more delicious. Serve it with a side of Japanese rice and a sesame soy dipping sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.
If you thought pancakes were just a breakfast food, think again! Japanese style pancakes, also known as okonomiyaki, are a popular dish in Japan that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. These savory pancakes are made with a batter of flour, eggs, cabbage, and your choice of protein.
The best part about these pancakes is that they are customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients to make them even more delicious. Some popular options include pork belly, shrimp, or even cheese. Once the pancakes are cooked, they are topped with a variety of sauces and toppings such as mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, and bonito flakes.
Whether you enjoy them as a snack or a meal, Japanese style pancakes are a must-try for any food lover. And the best part? You can easily make them at home with just a few ingredients.
If you have a sweet tooth, then you'll love this Japanese 'cotton' cheesecake. This light and airy dessert is made with a combination of cream cheese, eggs, and sugar to create a fluffy and delicate texture that melts in your mouth.
What sets this cheesecake apart from others is the addition of cornstarch and whipped egg whites. These ingredients help to give the cheesecake its signature 'cotton' texture and prevent it from becoming too dense.
Once the cheesecake is baked, it's topped with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, and it's sure to impress your friends and family.
Another popular dish in Japan is okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that is packed with flavor and texture. This dish is traditionally made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and then topped with a variety of ingredients such as pork belly, squid, or octopus.
The name "okonomiyaki" means "whatever you like, cooked," so feel free to get creative with your toppings. Once the pancake is cooked, it's topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes for a sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor.
Okonomiyaki is often referred to as a "Japanese pizza" because it's customizable and can be enjoyed with friends and family. It's a fun and tasty dish that is perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
This refreshing and light salad is a staple in Japanese cuisine. Made with cucumber, rice vinegar, and soy sauce, sunomono is a perfect side dish to balance out any meal. The cucumber is thinly sliced and marinated in the dressing, making it crunchy and full of flavor.
There are many variations of this salad, and you can add other ingredients such as seaweed, shrimp, or sliced radishes. It's a great way to add some vegetables to your meal and add a pop of flavor to your palate.
Sunomono is also a great accompaniment to sushi, as its light and tangy flavor helps to cleanse the palate between bites. It's a simple and delicious dish that is a must-try for any Japanese food lover.
Ramen has become a popular dish all over the world, but nothing beats a hot bowl of authentic Japanese ramen. This comforting soup is made with a flavorful broth, noodles, and a variety of toppings such as pork belly, mushrooms, and soft-boiled eggs.
Each region in Japan has its own unique style of ramen, so there are endless variations to try. Some popular types include tonkotsu, shoyu, and miso, each with its own distinct flavors and ingredients.
Whether you're looking for a hearty meal or a quick snack, Japanese ramen is a delicious and satisfying choice that will warm you up from the inside out.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. These delicious and convenient snacks are made with sushi rice and a variety of fillings such as salmon, tuna, or pickled plums.
Onigiri is a popular snack for picnics, lunchboxes, or just as a quick snack on the go. They are also often shaped into cute and creative characters, making them a hit with kids.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can make your own onigiri at home and enjoy a taste of Japan wherever you are.
Udon noodles are thick, chewy noodles that are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are often served in a warm and comforting soup, making it the perfect meal for a cold day.
To make udon noodle soup, you'll need udon noodles, dashi broth, and a variety of toppings such as tempura, tofu, or vegetables. The noodles are cooked in the broth until they are soft and chewy, and then the toppings are added for extra flavor and texture.
This dish is not only delicious but also very customizable. You can add your favorite ingredients to make it exactly how you like it. And to make it even more authentic, try slurping your noodles just like the Japanese do!
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Gyoza, also known as potstickers, are a popular dish in Japan that is enjoyed as both an appetizer and a main course. These dumplings filled with ground meat and vegetables are pan-fried until crispy and then steamed to perfection.
They are often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil for a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. Gyoza is a great dish to make with friends or family, as it involves a bit of teamwork to fold the dumplings just right.
Once you try these tasty and addictive dumplings, you'll understand why they're a favorite in Japanese cuisine.
Japanese eggplant, or nasu, is a popular vegetable in Japan that is used in a variety of dishes. This long and slender eggplant has a mild and slightly sweet flavor that makes it a versatile ingredient.
One popular way to prepare Japanese eggplant is by grilling it and then topping it with a miso glaze. This adds a savory and umami flavor to the eggplant, making it a delicious side dish or even a vegetarian main course.
You can also find Japanese eggplant in dishes such as tempura, stir-fries, and stews. So if you're looking to add some more veggies to your diet, give Japanese eggplant a try!
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
Soba noodles are thin, buckwheat noodles that are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are often served cold with a peanut sauce for a refreshing and flavorful dish.
The peanut sauce is made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and sesame oil, giving it a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It's a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes and is perfect for a hot summer day.
You can also add some vegetables or protein to the soba noodles for a more filling meal. And if you're feeling adventurous, try using the soba noodles in a stir-fry or soup for a different way to enjoy them.
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Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Soy Sauce, Pure Maple Syrup
Yakitori is a popular street food in Japan that is made with skewered chicken and vegetables. The meat is grilled over charcoal and then glazed with a teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory flavor.
Yakitori is a great dish to make for a party or gathering, as it's easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone. You can also try different variations such as beef, pork, or seafood for a twist on this classic dish.
Whether you enjoy it as a snack or a main course, yakitori is sure to be a hit with its delicious and addictive flavors.
Japanese zucchini, also known as kyuri, is a type of cucumber that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It is often used in salads, soups, and stir-fries, and is known for its crisp and refreshing taste.
One popular way to prepare Japanese zucchini is by making sunomono, a cucumber salad marinated in a rice vinegar and soy sauce dressing. This dish is a great accompaniment to any meal and is a great way to add some veggies to your diet.
You can also find Japanese zucchini in dishes such as tempura, stir-fries, and pickles. So next time you're at the grocery store, pick up some Japanese zucchini and give it a try!
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Japanese Beef Steak
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sake, Water, New York Steaks
Japanese beef steak, also known as Wagyu, is some of the most sought-after beef in the world. This high-quality beef is known for its marbling and tenderness, making it a delicacy in Japanese cuisine.
The most popular way to prepare Japanese beef steak is by grilling it over high heat and then serving it with a teriyaki or soy sauce. This allows the natural flavors of the beef to shine through and is sure to be a hit with any meat lover.
While it may be a bit more expensive than other cuts of beef, Japanese beef steak is definitely worth the splurge for a special occasion.
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Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet and Egg Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko
Katsudon is a popular Japanese dish that consists of a pork cutlet, egg, and onions served over a bed of rice. The pork cutlet is breaded and fried until it's crispy and then topped with a sweet and savory sauce.
One of the best parts of katsudon is the runny egg that gets cooked in the sauce and adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish. It's a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for a cold day.
While it may seem intimidating to make at home, katsudon is actually quite simple and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Okonomiyaki
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Baking Powder, Vegetable Stock, Eggs, Soy
Sweet potatoes are a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine and are often used in both savory and sweet dishes. One unique way to enjoy them is in okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that is packed with flavor and texture.
The sweet potatoes are grated and mixed with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage. The result is a crispy and slightly sweet pancake that is perfect for any meal.
Top it with your favorite ingredients such as pork belly, shrimp, or cheese, and drizzle it with some okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise for a delicious and satisfying dish.
Japanese curry is a hearty and comforting dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages. This dish is made with a blend of spices and vegetables, and can be served with a variety of proteins such as chicken, beef, or seafood.
The curry is usually served over a bed of rice and can be customized to your liking. Some popular additions include potatoes, carrots, and onions. The result is a flavorful and filling meal that is perfect for a chilly day.
You can find Japanese curry in almost every household in Japan, and once you try it, you'll understand why it's a staple in their cuisine.
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Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
Yaki udon is a popular stir-fry dish that is made with thick and chewy udon noodles. This dish is perfect for beginners as it's quick and easy to make, but still packed with flavor.
To make yaki udon, you'll need udon noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein. The noodles are stir-fried with the other ingredients and then coated in a savory sauce made of soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil.
It's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables and protein you may have in your fridge, making it a practical and delicious meal for any day of the week.
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Japanese Ramen with Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Salt, Pepper, Unsalted Butter, Sesame
If you're a fan of ramen but want to switch things up, try making Japanese ramen with chicken. This dish is perfect for those who don't eat pork, and it's just as delicious and satisfying.
Instead of using a pork-based broth, this ramen is made with a chicken and vegetable broth that is packed with flavor. The noodles are then topped with chicken, vegetables, and a soft-boiled egg for a complete and delicious meal.
This dish is perfect for any ramen lover and is a great way to enjoy this classic dish without the pork.
Tonkatsu is a popular dish in Japan that is made with a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet. It's often served with a tonkatsu sauce, which is a tangy and slightly sweet sauce made with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar.
This dish is simple yet flavorful and can be served as a main course or cut into smaller pieces and enjoyed as an appetizer. It's a great dish to make for a dinner party or special occasion.
The Origins of Kohakutou Candy
Kohakutou candy has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. It first gained popularity during the Edo period (1603-1868), when it was considered a luxury treat enjoyed by the wealthy. The name "kohakutou" comes from the Japanese words "kohaku," meaning amber, and "tou," meaning sugar. This is fitting, as the candy is known for its beautiful, translucent appearance resembling the gemstone.
The Ingredients
Kohakutou candy is made from just three simple ingredients: sugar, water, and starch. The quality of these ingredients is crucial in achieving the perfect texture and flavor of the candy. Traditional kohakutou candy is made with high-quality Japanese sugar, which is known for its delicate sweetness. The water used should be purified to avoid any impurities that could affect the final product. As for the starch, potato starch is commonly used, but cornstarch can also be used as a substitute.
The Process
The process of making kohakutou candy is a delicate one, requiring patience and precision. The sugar and water are heated together until the sugar is completely dissolved. The mixture is then poured into a mold lined with starch and left to cool for several hours. This allows the sugar to crystallize and form the unique texture of the candy. Once cooled, the candy is removed from the mold and coated with more starch to prevent sticking.
Make Your Own Kohakutou Candy
Now that you know more about the origins and ingredients of kohakutou candy, it's time to try making your own! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of this delicious treat:
1. In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Once the sugar is dissolved, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Let the mixture boil for 5 minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes.
4. While the mixture is cooling, line a square baking dish with parchment paper and dust it with potato starch.
5. Pour the cooled mixture into the baking dish and let it sit for 2-3 hours until it is completely solid.
6. Once solid, remove the candy from the dish and cut it into small cubes.
7. Coat the cubes with more potato starch to prevent sticking and enjoy your homemade kohakutou candy!
In conclusion, kohakutou candy is a beloved traditional treat in Japan that is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Its delicate texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect snack or gift for any occasion. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the unique taste of kohakutou candy for yourself?