Manjū

Manjū is a delightful Japanese confection that comes in a variety of forms. Typically, it features an outer layer made from flour, rice powder, kudzu, or buckwheat and is filled with anko—a sweet paste crafted from boiled adzuki beans and sugar. But that’s not all; you can also find manjū with other delectable fillings like chestnut jam or purple sweet potato.

This cherished treat originally hailed from China and made its way to Japan in the 14th century. For nearly 700 years, manjū has been a staple in Japanese sweet shops, celebrated for its delicious taste and affordability.

Manjū comes in a wide range of varieties to cater to different preferences. There's matcha (green tea) manjū, mizu (water) manjū with its distinctive translucent appearance, and even manjū filled with orange-flavored cream. Different regions in Japan also offer their own unique versions. For instance, you can find momiji manjū in Hiroshima and Miyajima, and Jumangoku Manju in Saitama Prefecture.

With its diverse flavors and textures, manjū is a versatile and cherished part of Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of traditional sweets or looking to try something new, manjū offers a little something for everyone.