Natto mochi

Traditional flavors and simple sweetness — “natto mochi” that colors winter in Yamagata Prefecture

About Natto mochi

Yamagata Prefecture's local dish “natto mochi” is known as a local winter staple. This dish, which is made at home during New Year's and cold seasons, continues to be loved by local residents for its simple, old-fashioned flavor and high nutritional value. Natto mochi is a dish of freshly made mochi mixed with a specially made sweet natto sauce. It features flavors that interweave with Yamagata's unique climate and tradition.

Its roots lie in the wisdom of life using natto, which has excellent preservability, and seasoning ideas have been added to each household. The sweet and sour sauce uses locally grown miso, sugar, and soy sauce to create a rich, deep flavor. This sauce is intertwined with the chewy mochi, and the rich flavor spreads every time you take it to your mouth.

The mochi that plays the leading role is made from mochi rice produced in Yamagata prefecture. Rice grown in an environment with severe temperature differences is characterized by its strong stickiness and firm texture. The natto sauce is well entwined with the freshly made soft mochi, and the richer flavor spreads as you chew. Meanwhile, natto, which plays the leading role in the sauce, combines unique flavor and nutrition due to fermentation.

Natto is attracting attention as a “versatile ingredient that supports health.” It is rich in protein, and in addition to being essential as a material to build the body, a component called vitamin K2 has the function of strengthening bones. Furthermore, “nattokinase,” which is unique to natto, is said to smooth blood circulation. Also, isoflavones derived from soybeans are ingredients that play a major role in beauty and health. Isoflavones are known as “phytoestrogens,” which have a function similar to female hormones, and they provide support to strengthen bones and help maintain skin firmness. It also has an antioxidant effect and is expected to have the effect of suppressing aging in the body. Since it contains these nutrients in a well-balanced manner, it can be said that it is a perfect food for winter when the body gets tired easily due to the cold. At home, gathering around natto mochi is regarded as one of the pleasures of winter, and it is an entity that deepens local culture and bonds.

This simple flavor goes well with sake, which has a refreshing taste. The chewy texture of mochi and the sweet and spicy sauce are gently wrapped in the refreshing flavor of Japanese sake, making them a perfect match. When you visit Yamagata, be sure to try natto mochi and experience the local culture and traditions.