19 Japanese Rice Candy Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
As a staple in Japanese cuisine, rice is a versatile and essential ingredient in many dishes. One of the most beloved and popular ways to enjoy rice in Japan is through Japanese rice candy, also known as "mochi." This sweet, chewy treat has gained worldwide recognition and has become a favorite among those with a sweet tooth. In this article, we will dive into the history of Japanese rice candy, its cultural significance, and a simple recipe for you to make at home. So put on your apron and get ready to make some delicious Japanese rice candy!
Looking for a unique twist on the classic beer can chicken recipe? Try making it Japanese-style with a crispy, flavorful pork katsu topping. This dish combines the smoky flavors of the grill with the bold and savory tastes of Japanese cuisine.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Finally, top the chicken with a golden, breaded pork cutlet and serve with a side of steamed rice and tsukemono (Japanese pickled vegetables).
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Hibachi-Style Japanese Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Liquid
Take your beer can chicken to the next level by serving it with a side of hibachi-style Japanese fried rice. This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to a variety of vegetables, meats, and seasonings. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover chicken from your beer can chicken dinner.
To make this dish, start by cooking your rice and setting it aside. Then, in a large skillet or wok, sauté diced chicken with diced carrots, onions, and peas. Add in shoyu (soy sauce), mirin (rice wine), and chicken broth for a delicious sauce. Finally, mix in the cooked rice and scramble in a few eggs for a classic hibachi-style fried rice dish.
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Chicken Teriyaki
Main Ingredients: Sake, Mirin, Soy Sauce, Light Brown Sugar, Fresh
If you love the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce, you'll love this take on beer can chicken. This dish combines the smokiness of the grill with the tangy and umami flavors of teriyaki sauce for a mouthwatering meal.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Finally, brush on a thick layer of teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky and flavorful glaze.
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Japanese Salmon Avocado Rice Bowls
Main Ingredients: Rice, Avocado, Smoked Salmon, Cucumbers, Nori Seaweed
This dish is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy beer can chicken. The combination of grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and tender salmon makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Plus, it's a great way to get your omega-3's in!
To make this dish, start by grilling your chicken on a beer can as usual. Then, cook your salmon fillets on the grill until they are flaky and tender. Serve the chicken and salmon on top of a bed of steamed rice and diced avocado. Drizzle with a soy sauce and wasabi dressing for an extra kick of flavor.
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Easy Gyudon (Japanese Beef Rice Bowl)
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Sugar, Mirin, Sake, Broth, Ginger, Onion
This dish is a quick and easy way to add a Japanese twist to your beer can chicken recipe. Gyudon is a popular Japanese dish made with thinly sliced beef, onions, and a sweet and savory sauce served over a bed of rice.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Finally, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of steamed rice, topped with sautéed onions and a mirin and dashi (Japanese stock) sauce.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
If you're looking for a portable and convenient way to enjoy your beer can chicken, try making onigiri. These Japanese rice balls are stuffed with a variety of fillings and make for a tasty and satisfying snack or meal.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Finally, shred the chicken and mix it with sake (Japanese rice wine) and soy sauce. Use this mixture to stuff your onigiri for a flavorful and filling treat.
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Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet and Egg Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko
This dish is a hearty and filling way to enjoy your beer can chicken. Katsudon is a popular Japanese dish made with breaded and fried pork cutlets, onions, and eggs served over a bed of rice.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Finally, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of steamed rice, topped with sautéed onions, a dashi and soy sauce broth, and a beaten egg for a creamy and satisfying meal.
If you're a fan of pork katsu, you'll love this classic Japanese dish. Tonkatsu is a breaded and fried pork cutlet typically served with a tangy and savory sauce for dipping.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Finally, bread and fry the chicken using a mixture of panko (Japanese breadcrumbs) and egg. Serve with a side of tonkatsu sauce for a flavorful and crispy meal.
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Japanese Salmon Bowl
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Rice Wine Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Chilli Sauce
This dish is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy your beer can chicken. It's also a great way to use up any leftover chicken and salmon from previous meals. The combination of tender grilled chicken, flaky salmon, and fresh vegetables makes for a light and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by grilling your chicken on a beer can as usual. Then, cook your salmon fillets on the grill until they are flaky and tender. Serve the chicken and salmon on top of a bed of steamed rice and chopped fresh vegetables, such as cucumber, carrots, and avocado. Top with a drizzle of ponzu (citrus-based sauce) for a refreshing and tangy flavor.
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Gyudon (Japanese Beef & Rice Bowls)
Main Ingredients: Neutral Oil, Onions, Beef, Sugar, Mirin, Soy Sauce
If you love gyudon but want a lighter and healthier version, try making it with beer can chicken instead of beef. This dish is a great way to enjoy the flavors of gyudon without the added fat and calories.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Finally, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of steamed rice, topped with sautéed onions and a mirin and dashi (Japanese stock) sauce. For an extra boost of flavor, top with a sprinkle of nori (dried seaweed) and beni shoga (pickled ginger).
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Japanese Farm-Style Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Main Ingredients: Teriyaki, Portobellos, Chicken Thighs, Shitake
This dish is a great way to enjoy your beer can chicken with a Japanese twist. The combination of grilled chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful teriyaki sauce makes for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Serve the chicken on top of a bed of steamed rice and sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Drizzle with a homemade teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, mirin, and honey for a delicious and healthy meal.
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Japanese Beef Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Water, Dried Kombu, Bonita, Yellow Onion, Red Onion
If you love gyudon but want to switch things up, try making it with beef and chicken instead. This dish combines the bold and flavorful tastes of beef and chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of steamed rice, topped with sautéed beef and onions in a sake and soy sauce broth. For an extra kick of flavor, top with a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi.
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Japanese Pickled Ginger for Sushi
Main Ingredients: Ginger, Rice, Sugar, Salt, Vinegar
If you're a fan of sushi, you'll love this homemade pickled ginger recipe. It's a great way to add a tangy and spicy kick to your beer can chicken dish. Plus, it's easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for future meals.
To make this dish, start by thinly slicing a few fresh ginger root and blanching them in boiling water. Then, mix together rice vinegar, sugar, and salt and add in the ginger slices. Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight for the best flavor. Serve with your beer can chicken for a refreshing and zesty taste.
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Gomoku Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Lotus Roots, Carrot, Aburaage, Dried Shiitake
This dish is a great way to use up any leftover chicken and vegetables from your beer can chicken dinner. Gomoku gohan is a flavorful and hearty Japanese mixed rice dish made with a variety of ingredients.
To make this dish, start by cooking white rice and setting it aside. Then, in a saucepan, sauté diced chicken, shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and gobo (burdock root) with sake and soy sauce. Mix in the cooked rice and let it simmer for a few minutes until all the flavors are combined. Serve with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty and crunchy texture.
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How To Cook Japanese Rice With Your Pot
Main Ingredients: Rice, Soft Water
If you're new to cooking Japanese rice, this is the perfect recipe for you. This simple and easy method will teach you how to cook perfect Japanese rice every time using just a pot and stovetop.
To make this dish, start by rinsing your rice until the water runs clear. Then, add the rice and water to a pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 18 minutes, then turn off the heat and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve with your beer can chicken for a classic and delicious meal.
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Japanese Curry With Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Carrots, Onions, Red
This dish is a great way to enjoy your beer can chicken with a Japanese twist. Japanese curry is a comforting and flavorful dish made with a variety of vegetables, meats, and a rich and spicy curry sauce.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. In a separate pot, sauté diced onions, carrots, and potatoes with sake and soy sauce. Add in a block of Japanese curry roux and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender. Serve with your beer can chicken and steamed rice for a hearty and flavorful meal.
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GRILLED JAPANESE FARM STYLE TERIYAKI BOWL
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Portobellos, Shitake Mushrooms, Soy
This dish is a delicious and healthy option for your beer can chicken dinner. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and teriyaki sauce makes for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
To make this dish, start by seasoning your chicken with a blend of Japanese spices and herbs, such as shichimi togarashi and goma shio. Then, place a beer can in the cavity of the chicken and grill it until it's fully cooked and crispy. Serve the chicken on top of a bed of steamed brown rice and a variety of sautéed vegetables, such as snow peas, carrots, and broccoli. Drizzle with a homemade teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, mirin, and honey for a delicious and healthy meal.
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Tofu Katsu (Japanese Vegan Steak)
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Oil, Soy Milk, All Purpose Flour
If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option for your beer can chicken dinner, try making tofu katsu. This dish is made with crispy and flavorful breaded tofu and can be served with a variety of sauces for dipping.
To make this dish, start by pressing a block of firm tofu to remove excess water. Then, bread and fry the tofu using a mixture of panko (Japanese breadcrumbs) and egg. Serve with a side of tonkatsu sauce or a homemade ponzu and soy sauce dipping sauce for a tasty and flavorful meal.
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Japanese Garlic Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Garlic, Spring Onions, Eggs, Salt
This dish is a great way to use up any leftover chicken and rice from your beer can chicken dinner. It's a simple and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
The History of Japanese Rice Candy
The Origins of Mochi
Japanese rice candy, or mochi, has been around for centuries and has deep roots in Japanese culture. It is believed that mochi was first made during the Jomon period (14,000 BC to 300 BC) as a way to preserve rice during the winter months. The rice would be pounded into a sticky paste and molded into various shapes, often used as offerings to the gods.
During the Heian period (794 AD to 1185 AD), mochi became a popular treat among the aristocrats. It was often served during special occasions and ceremonies, and its popularity continued to spread throughout the country.
The Introduction of Japanese Rice Candy
The modern version of Japanese rice candy, also known as "mochi candy," was first introduced in the early 20th century. It was created by the Morinaga company, a well-known confectionery brand in Japan, and quickly gained popularity among the masses.
The candy was originally sold as a snack for children, but its unique texture and sweet taste soon caught on with adults as well. Today, Japanese rice candy can be found in various flavors and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Mochi's Cultural Significance
A Symbol of Good Luck
In Japan, mochi is often associated with good luck and prosperity. This is because of its sticky and elastic texture, which symbolizes the strength and unity of family and community. During the New Year's celebrations, mochi is a staple dish, believed to bring good fortune and happiness for the upcoming year.
A Versatile Ingredient
Mochi is not just a delicious treat, but it is also a versatile ingredient in Japanese cuisine. It can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, such as mochi soup, mochi ice cream, and even mochi pizza. Its chewy texture adds a unique element to dishes, making it a popular ingredient among chefs and home cooks alike.
How to Make Japanese Rice Candy at Home
Now that you know the history and cultural significance of Japanese rice candy, it's time to try making it at home. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- Food coloring (optional)
- Potato starch or cornstarch for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water until well combined.
2. Add a few drops of food coloring if desired.
3. Microwave the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute, until it becomes a sticky paste.
4. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
5. Dust a flat surface with potato starch or cornstarch.
6. Using a spoon or your hands, roll the mochi mixture into small balls and place them on the dusted surface.
7. Enjoy your homemade Japanese rice candy immediately, or store them in an airtight container for later.
In conclusion, Japanese rice candy, or mochi, is not just a delicious treat but also a symbol of Japanese culture and tradition. Now that you know the history, cultural significance, and how to make it at home, it's time to experience the unique taste and texture of this popular Japanese confectionery.
