Momiji manjū

Japanese confectionery

is a type of wagashi, or traditional Japanese confectionery, that originates from the Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan. It is particularly associated with the island of Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima.

History

Momiji manjū was first created in the early 20th century. The confection was inspired by the Japanese maple leaf, or "momiji," which is a symbol of autumn in Japan. The shape of the manjū is designed to resemble a maple leaf, reflecting the natural beauty of the Miyajima area, which is famous for its maple trees.

The creation of momiji manjū is attributed to a confectioner named Takatsu Tsunesuke, who developed the sweet in 1906. It quickly became popular as a souvenir for visitors to the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Miyajima.

Ingredients and Preparation

Momiji manjū is made from a batter that typically includes wheat flour, rice flour, sugar, and eggs. The batter is poured into maple leaf-shaped molds and filled with a sweet red bean paste known as "anko." The filled molds are then baked until the outer shell is golden brown and slightly crisp.

In addition to the traditional red bean paste filling, modern variations of momiji manjū may include fillings such as custard, chocolate, cheese, or matcha (green tea) flavored paste.

Cultural Significance

Momiji manjū is not only a popular souvenir but also a symbol of the Hiroshima Prefecture. It is often enjoyed during the autumn season when the maple leaves change color, drawing tourists to the region. The confection is also a common gift during the Obon festival and other Japanese holidays.

Production

The production of momiji manjū has become a significant industry in Hiroshima, with many local confectioners producing their own versions of the sweet. Some shops offer visitors the opportunity to watch the production process and even try making their own momiji manjū.

Related pages

• Wagashi
• Anko
• Itsukushima Shrine
• Hiroshima Prefecture

Gallery

Momiji manjū from Hiroshima