Dish

Karukan

Karukan is a soft, chewy sweet that is made with sweet potato, rice flour, and sugar. It is typically flavored with kinako, a roasted soybean flour, and is often served with green tea. The sweet has a long history in Japan, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. It is often served as a snack or as a dessert.

Asian cuisine› East Asian cuisine› Japanese cuisine

Sweet Bread

Origins and history

Karukan has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Edo period (1603-1868), when sweet potato became a popular food in Japan. The sweet was introduced as a way to use up leftover sweet potato and has been a popular snack ever since.

Dietary considerations

Karukan is gluten-free and vegan. It is suitable for those with celiac disease or a vegan diet.

Variations

There are many variations of Karukan, including those made with different types of sweet potato or flavored with different types of flour.

Presentation and garnishing

Karukan is often presented in small, bite-sized pieces. It can be garnished with a dusting of kinako or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Tips & Tricks

To keep Karukan fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If the sweet becomes hard, it can be microwaved for a few seconds to soften it.