Try this delightful and unique Japanese dessert, Mizu Shingen Mochi, also known as water mochi. Made from mineral water and agar agar powder, this translucent dessert has a delicate texture and is usually served with kinako powder and brown sugar syrup. In this recipe, we add a sweet twist by pairing it with a homemade strawberry compote, providing a burst of fruity flavors. Perfect for a refreshing summer treat!
Ingredients
- For the Mizu Shingen Mochi:
- - 2 cups mineral water
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/2 teaspoon agar agar powder
- - Kinako powder, for serving (optional)
- - Brown sugar syrup, for serving (optional)
- For the Strawberry Compote:
- - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
- In a saucepan, combine the mineral water, granulated sugar, and agar agar powder. Stir well to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the agar agar powder is fully dissolved.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into silicone mold trays or small cups. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Meanwhile, prepare the strawberry compote. In a separate saucepan, combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat the strawberries with sugar.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries have softened and the juices have thickened slightly.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the strawberry compote cool completely.
- To serve, gently remove the set Mizu Shingen Mochi from the silicone molds or cups. Place each mochi on a serving plate.
- Spoon a generous amount of strawberry compote over each mochi.
- Optionally, sprinkle kinako powder over the mochi and drizzle with brown sugar syrup to enhance the flavor.
- Serve the Mizu Shingen Mochi with Strawberry Compote chilled and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Mizu Shingen Mochi is often referred to as a 'raindrop cake' due to its water-like appearance and texture.
Agar agar, a seaweed-based gelatin substitute, gives Mizu Shingen Mochi its unique texture and enables it to retain its shape.
Kinako powder is a roasted soybean flour commonly used in Japanese cuisine, particularly as a topping for Japanese desserts.
The combination of the delicate Mizu Shingen Mochi and the sweet strawberry compote creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.