Kagami Mochi - Traditional Japanese New Year's Rice Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) water 1 1/4 cups (300ml) water
• 1 daidai fruit (or substitute with tangerine or orange) 1 daidai fruit (or substitute with tangerine or orange)
• Cornstarch, for dusting Cornstarch, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other.
3. 3.
   Steam the larger portion of dough for 20 minutes until cooked and elastic.
4. 4.
   Remove the steamed dough from the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Dust a clean surface with cornstarch and transfer the steamed dough onto it.
6. 6.
   Knead the dough gently until it becomes smooth and pliable.
7. 7.
   Shape the dough into a round disc, about 1 inch thick and 6 inches in diameter.
8. 8.
   Repeat steps 3-7 with the smaller portion of dough.
9. 9.
   Place the larger mochi disc on a serving plate.
10. 10.
    Dust the mochi disc with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
11. 11.
    Carefully place the smaller mochi disc on top of the larger one.
12. 12.
    Dust the smaller mochi disc with cornstarch as well.
13. 13.
    Wash and dry the daidai fruit (or substitute) and place it on top of the smaller mochi disc.
14. 14.
    Kagami Mochi is now ready to be served and enjoyed!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as regular rice flour will not yield the desired sticky texture.
• Daidai fruit — If daidai fruit is not available, you can substitute it with a tangerine or orange. The fruit adds a citrusy flavor and a vibrant touch to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the mochi from sticking to your hands while kneading, lightly coat your hands with cornstarch.
• If the mochi becomes too sticky to handle, dust it with more cornstarch.
• Serve Kagami Mochi on a decorative plate or tray to enhance its visual appeal.
• To store leftovers, wrap the Kagami Mochi tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Consume within 2-3 days.
• For added flavor, you can lightly toast the mochi discs before assembling.

Serving advice

Kagami Mochi is traditionally served during Japanese New Year celebrations. It is often displayed as a centerpiece on the family altar or in the living room to bring good luck and prosperity. To serve, carefully cut the mochi into smaller pieces using a sharp knife and enjoy its delightful texture and subtle sweetness.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Kagami Mochi, place it on a beautiful Japanese lacquerware plate or a decorative platter. You can also add some fresh greenery or edible flowers around the dish to create an elegant and festive look.