Mandarin orange mochi

About Mandarin orange mochi

Wakayama Prefecture's local confectionary “mandarin orange” is a sweet that makes use of mandarin oranges, a specialty of Kishu, and is characterized by its refreshing flavor and the soft sweetness of glutinous rice. This mandarin orange mochi is known as a dish that reflects the traditions and climate of Kishu.

The history of mandarin orange cultivation in the Arita region began in Tensho 2 (1574). It is said that Ito Magoemon of Itoga in Arida City brought back mandarin orange saplings from Yatsushiro in Kyushu Higo Province (present-day Kumamoto Prefecture) and planted them in Arita. This area is surrounded by mountains and the sea, and although there was a lot of land unsuitable for growing rice, the warm climate and mountainous terrain were ideal for growing tangerines. Therefore, the Kishu Domain also encouraged mandarin orange cultivation, and mandarin orange production flourished throughout the region.

Furthermore, in 1634, Takigawara Tobei carried tangerines to Edo by boat, and their deliciousness became popular in Edo. Also, there is an anecdote that in 1685, the wealthy merchant Kinokuniya Bunzaemon crossed the raging sea and delivered tangerines to Edo and gained huge wealth. Thus, Arita mandarin oranges spread all over Japan and established a position as a representative specialty of Kishu.

“Mandarin orange mochi” is a local confectionary born from research on hometown cuisine, taking advantage of the appeal of Kishu mandarin oranges. It is made by putting mandarin oranges on top of mochi and steaming them, then scooping up the peeled tangerines and sweet rice together. It is characterized by its vivid color, orange scent, and slight acidity, and is a flavor where you can feel the climate of Kishu and the blessings of mandarin oranges.

In May, white tangerine flowers bloom in the terraced fields, and a sweet scent wafts throughout the town. Yellow fruits adorn the mountains in autumn, and the harvest season for tangerines begins from October to December. Mandarin orange mochi is a dish nurtured by these natural blessings and Kishu's history, and is loved by locals and tourists. Of course, you can enjoy it softly as it is, but by grilling the surface savory, you can also enjoy a new flavor that is crispy on the outside and thick on the inside.

“Mandarin orange mochi” is filled with the nature and traditions of Kishu. The story of history and climate is contained in that bite.

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