Mochi

Mochi is a traditional Japanese treat made from glutinous rice that has been pounded into a sticky, elastic dough.

It can then be shaped into various forms, from small, round dumplings to rectangular blocks. Mochi's texture is soft and chewy, providing a unique sensory experience.

In Japan, mochi is enjoyed in a multitude of ways. It can be filled with sweet red bean paste, flavoured with matcha, or wrapped around a variety of fillings like fruit or ice cream.

Eaten in large quantities around the Japanese New Year, it is traditionally made in a ceremony called mochitsuki – and not by a specialised mochi chef either: this is a home or community ceremony involving a lot of glutinous rice and two people with wooden mallets pounding it into dough.

Beyond Japan, mochi has gained popularity globally, finding its way into desserts, snacks, and even soup. Mochi UK availability is now better than ever here at Sous Chef, in a wide variety of flavours.