Monaka (最中)
Monaka (最中) is a traditional Japanese sweet made from two thin, crisp wafers (usually made from glutinous rice) that encase a filling, typically sweet red bean paste (anko). The wafers are often lightly toasted to enhance their flavor and texture.
Monaka comes in various shapes and sizes, and the fillings can vary, including other types of sweet bean pastes, chestnuts, or even ice cream. It’s a popular snack enjoyed during tea ceremonies, festivals, and as gifts. The delicate nature of monaka, combined with its crunchy texture and sweet filling, makes it a beloved treat in Japanese culture.
I found a monaka ice cream shop in the Ueno area. The shop is famous for its monaka ice cream filled with red bean-flavored ice cream, so I decided to give it a try. While watching the process, I noticed that a chewy, mochi-like sweet called gyuhi was also sandwiched between the two crispy wafers. The gentle sweetness and coolness of the ice cream, combined with the chewy texture of the gyuhi and the crunchiness of the wafers, made it the perfect dessert for a hot day!
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