What is Mochi Candy? Unwrapping the Sweet Japanese Sensation

If you’re looking for an incredibly soft and chewy sweet treat, with a variety of flavors that can’t be beat, then you’re in for a treat with mochi candy! Originating from Japan, mochi is much more than just a sweet, it’s a cultural symbol that is steeped in traditions, celebrated in festivals and cherished by their society in everyday life.

What is Mochi?

Mochi, (pronounced “mow-chee”) has been a staple of Japanese food and their cultural heritage for centuries. Traditionally made from glutinous rice (mochigome) that’s boiled, steamed, then pounded into a smooth, sticky paste, mochi can be molded into a multitude of various shapes. The dish can also be made using sweet rice flour (mochiko) which helps you skip the pounding step, which can be exhilarating (see below video for an example):

This versatile rice cake can be enjoyed in many forms, as both sweet and savory dishes. Mochi are squishy rice cakes that can be prepared in a multitude of different ways. Some dishes can be savory – flavored with soy sauce and wrapped in seaweed (Isobe Maki), but most traditional mochi recipes are served as a dessert with sweet red bean paste inside (Daifuku).

Historically, mochi has played a significant role in Japanese customs, especially during their New Year’s celebrations (Kagami Biraki) when it’s consumed as a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Interestingly, mochi is traditionally never cut with a knife. In Japanese culture, the words for 'cut' and 'break' can carry negative connotations, as they are often associated with severing relationships or disrupting harmony. Instead, mochi is gently separated by hand or cut with a wooden mallet, which helps preserve its symbolic meaning of unity and good fortune.

Mochi Candy in the Modern Era

In recent years, mochi has transcended its traditional roots, evolving into a beloved treat that has captivated candy enthusiasts worldwide. While many Japanese and Asian fusion restaurants have served mochi ice cream desserts for over 30 years, the introduction of mochi candy has propelled this iconic Japanese delicacy into a much brighter spotlight.

The introduction of mochi in your local supermarket’s candy aisle has helped usher in a new era of popularity within the Asian candy and snack market. No longer limited to its classic forms, mochi has been reimagined in a variety of different flavors, making it a versatile and sought-after confection across the globe.

This modern twist on mochi has introduced global audiences to the uniquely soft and chewy texture and delightful taste that have long been cherished in Japan. As mochi candy continues to gain momentum, it’s not just a passing trend but it represents a testament to the enduring appeal of this centuries-old treat, now enjoyed in a variety of innovative and exciting new ways! Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of mochi, this sweet sensation offers a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary flair.

Let’s Explore the Incredibly Soft and Chewy World of Mochi Candy!

At Redstone Foods, we carry two brands of mochi candy: Cacao Mochi, and Royal Family Mochi to satisfy your sweet tooth! These come in a variety of different flavors, but here are just a few to further awaken your sense of wonder surrounding all things Japanese candy!

Cacao Mochi – Chocolate

Up first is perhaps the most accessible entry for American palates into the wonderful world of mochi: Cacao Mochi Chocolate flavor! These are kind of like eating a giant chewy chocolate chip! Like all mochi candy, these are gluten free and low in fat, so they make for a perfect sweet indulgence for those looking for a guilt-free snack. They are also a great introductory experience for newcomers who want to dive into the delightful world of mochi.

Cacao Mochi – Strawberry

If you’re a fan of fruity treats, Cacao Mochi Strawberry will transport your taste buds to a field of fresh strawberries! This flavor pays homage to the traditional Japanese Ichigo Daifuku, where sweet mochi is filled with ripe strawberry goodness. Its vibrant, natural flavor and soft, chewy texture make it a refreshing and satisfying snack. Now, why do I have the Beatles “Strawberry Fields Forever” stuck in my head?

Royal Family Mochi – Vanilla Crème

Royal Family Mochi combines the pillowy texture of fresh mochi with a luscious vanilla crème center that's simply irresistible. The subtle hint of vanilla extract perfectly complements the sweet, chewy mochi exterior, creating a delicate balance of flavors in every bite. Each peg bag contains individually wrapped pieces, ensuring that your mochi experience is as soft and fresh as it should be, every single time!

Royal Family Mochi – Matcha Latte

For a taste straight from Japan, the Royal Family Mochi Matcha Latte flavor offers an authentic matcha experience with a twist. While matcha can sometimes be an acquired taste, this mochi version is a revelation in the world of sweets. The creamy matcha latte filling blends beautifully with the soft, sweet rice cake, creating a treat that’s both traditional and delightfully unexpected.

Even if matcha green tea hasn’t been your favorite flavor in the past, this mochi might just change your mind! This is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the more sophisticated side of mochi.

Royal Family – Bubble Milk Tea Mochi

We probably all know someone who is infatuated with boba tea. This insanely popular drink from Taiwan has taken the United States by storm, and we bet that no matter where you are, there’s multiple places that serve bubble tea in your area. This popular flavor lends well to the mochi mania that is similarly becoming ultra-popular in the USA! With a sweet coating, the flavor actually had me reminiscent of a popular breakfast cereal: Froot Loops.

Side note: To ‘research’ for this blog, I have been eating probably way too much mochi and that’s what the flavor of this reminded me of… But I digress. The Royal Family Bubble Milk Tea Mochi offers a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of bubble tea in a uniquely sweet, bite-sized form! Meaning, you’re very likely to like it!

If you’re ready to bring the mochi madness into your candy shop, Redstone Foods has you covered! With over 6,000 different candy and snack products from around the world, including 600+ glass bottle craft sodas, energy drinks, and bubble tea selections, we are your go-to source for a unique and exciting inventory. Our team of confectionery experts is always on the lookout for the next big thing, so keep an eye on our New Products section that is updated almost daily!

If you’re ready to find out why Redstone Foods is America’s favorite candy distributor, sign up for an account online or give us a call today. We’re excited to help you bring the sweet taste of mochi (and much more) to your customers!

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