Green tea is an integral part of Japanese cuisine, and many traditional Japanese desserts, known as “Wagashi,” pair perfectly with it. While there are countless desserts that can complement green tea, there are three that stand out as favorites, both in Japan and internationally.
1. Daifuku (Japanese Mochi) with Green Tea Filling Daifuku is a popular Japanese dessert consisting of soft, chewy mochi dough filled with a variety of fillings. The green tea-flavored daifuku, often paired with other ingredients like fruit or red bean paste, offers a delicious balance of sweetness and flavor. This dessert is often enjoyed with a hot cup of green tea, creating the perfect harmony of taste.
To make Daifuku at home, you can try this simple recipe:
Ingredients:
100g sticky rice flour
20g oil powder (for making flour)
10g matcha powder
50g sugar
150ml water
200g white bean paste (with green tea powder)
5g green tea powder Strawberries (optional)
Instructions: Mix sticky rice flour, matcha powder, and sugar in a microwave-safe container. Gradually add water until the mixture becomes smooth and thick. Microwave the mixture on high for 3 minutes, stirring every minute to ensure it becomes clear and thickened. Once cooked, divide the mixture into equal portions and flatten into round sheets. Add a spoonful of the white bean filling mixed with green tea powder to the center, then fold the mochi over the filling. Serve with tea and enjoy! Traditionally, Daifuku is served with a small wooden stick called “Koro Mochi” (黒文字) for easy handling.
2. Senbei (Japanese Rice Crackers) Senbei, a traditional Japanese rice cracker, is often enjoyed with green tea. While senbei can be both sweet and savory, the salty soy sauce variety is particularly popular as a snack alongside tea. These crunchy crackers are typically baked or grilled over traditional charcoal and seasoned with a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and sometimes wrapped in seaweed. Senbei is a casual, hands-on snack, making it ideal for enjoying with friends or guests.
3. Shiratama Dango (Japanese Sweet Dumplings) Shiratama Dango are soft, chewy rice flour dumplings that are often served with green tea in Japan. Similar to the popular Thai dessert “Bualoy,” these dumplings are easy to prepare and make for a delightful treat.
To make Shiratama Dango, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
250g white tofu
200g rice flour (or mochiko flour)
200g sugar
Instructions: Mash the tofu and rice flour together until the mixture becomes soft and pliable. Roll the dough into small, round dumplings. Boil water in a large pot and drop the dumplings in. Once they float to the top, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the dumplings and let them cool on paper. Serve with a drizzle of your favorite sauce or grill them lightly for extra flavor. Pair with hot green tea for the ultimate Japanese dessert experience. These three desserts not only highlight the versatility of green tea but also embody the tradition and creativity of Japanese cuisine. Whether enjoyed in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or as a casual treat, they offer a delightful and authentic taste of Japan.
