Online Wagashi Class: Make Japanese Nerikiri or Mochi Sweets

No need to travel to Japan to enjoy delicate wagashi confectioneries, prized for their balanced sweetness and delicate motifs. This online lesson brings the ancient craft of wagashi to your kitchen, no matter where you are in the world. All you need is a microwave oven and the ingredients on the list your host will provide you, and you’re ready to enjoy this creative sweets-making workshop! Kaoru, who leads this experience, has over a decade of experience in wagashi and sugar craft and holds a certification from the Wagashi Association of Japan. She will first provide you with an overview of the history and cultural significance of wagashi before you get hands-on in making your delectable sweets. You can opt to make either nerikiri (the default option) or mochi wagashi (through the Options tab). Nerikiri are moist, small, and delicate confectioneries often enjoyed with matcha. You’ll first make the dough, color and shape it to make two pieces, and decorate your nerikiri creations with intricate designs. Guests who would prefer to make chewy, soft and powdery mochi can book the mochi class through the Options tab. In this class, you’ll be making several kinds of mochi and putting to the test the versatility of this ever-popular Japanese sweet. You’ll make strawberry daifuku (a soft mochi filled with a juicy strawberry), mochi ice cream and three-colored dango (skewered mochi dumplings that are a popular snack during the cherry blossom viewing season). Enjoy making traditional sweets from the comfort of your home, and keep the recipes to replicate your favorite Japanese sweets anytime, anywhere!