Momiji Manju - The Maple Pastry From Miyajima
Manjus are japanese pastries derived from mochi, other well known desserts in Japanese cuisine.
Manju consists of a dough of flour, water, sugar and starch, filled with red bean paste (which comes from azuki beans). They are boiled but served cold, usually at teatime. It has been this way since the 14th century.
There are many kinds of manjus, and one of the most famous is matcha tea flavor. The one we are presenting to you today is the momiji 🍁 manju, a regional variety from Miyajima which has the shape of maple leaves ("momiji") as well as their taste.
We bought this box of cakes on Miyajima island, and they were a hit! This is a very specific and local taste, unknown outside of Japan, and all food lovers can discover the momiji manju here, through the following pictures.