11 Easy Ways to Eat Mochi (Japanese Rice Cake)

Looking for tasty ways to enjoy Japanese rice cakes? From grilling to soups to sweet treats, mochi can be enjoyed in so many ways. Here are 11 easy and delicious ideas to try!

What is Kiri Mochi?

Let me explain what mochi is first. Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice and has a gooey and chewy texture. The mochi itself is not sweetened, which makes it a versatile food that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

Kiri mochi is a type of mochi pre-cut into rectangular shapes; it’s dried, hard like bar soap, and available year-round. It is a popular pantry staple as it comes in convenient individual packages and has a long shelf life, lasting several months. Now that you know, let’s dive right into these tasty kiri mochi recipes below!

Mochi

Mochi is a traditional Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice. It is known for its chewy texture and wide range of uses, including sweet and savory dishes. Find mochi recipes here.

1. Grilled Mochi with Sweet Soy Sauce

Dipping Yaki Mochi With Sweet Soy Sauce is a quick and easy way to enjoy the kiri mochi. The combination of savory soy sauce and sweet sugar complements the chewy texture of the mochi.

Grilled kiri mochi served with a sweet soy sauce.

2. Oshiruko (Sweet Red Bean Soup)

This Oshiruko is a popular winter treat in Japanese cuisine, where the chewy mochi pairs perfectly with a creamy soup made from anko, sweetened adzuki beans. You can easily recreate this authentic Japanese dessert at home with simple ingredients!

3. Anko Mochi

Anko Mochi is also a beloved treat! Combining sweet red bean paste with soft but crispy grilled Kiri mochi creates a delicious and satisfying dish. If you enjoy Japanese sweets, this recipe is a must-try!

4. Kinako Mochi

Kinako Mochi is made from mochi dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and sugar. The chewy mochi, the nutty yellow kinako, and a hint of sweetness combine to create a uniquely delicious treat.

5. Isobeyaki Mochi

If you are looking for savory options with mochi, this recipe, Isobeyaki Mochi, is for you! It is made by grilling or toasting mochi rice cake, seasoning it with soy sauce, and wrapping it with a strip of nori seaweed.

6. Natto Mochi

Natto Mochi is a popular way to eat yaki mochi, particularly in northern Japan, including Hokkaido (where I’m from). Natto (fermented soybeans) with a strong flavor and slimy texture goes well with plain mochi.

7. Daikon Oroshi Mochi

Daikon Oroshi Mochi is served as yaki mochi topped with freshly grated daikon radish seasoned with soy sauce. Refreshing and slightly spicy daikon radish makes for a delightful dish.

8. Ozoni

Ozoni holds a special place in Japanese cooking, enjoyed on the first day of the new year as a symbol of good luck and fortune. It’s made with a delicious combination of clear hot soup, savory grilled mochi, and a variety of fresh vegetables.

9. Mochi Kinchaku

This Mochi Kinchaku, a Japanese rice cake wrapped in seasoned deep-fried tofu, is a genuinely satisfying dish for you! Learn how to make it!

10. Chocolate Mochi

Are you looking for a delicious mochi recipe? This Chocolate Mochi is an easy and quick treat that harmoniously blends rich chocolate with Japanese mochi, requiring only about 5 ingredients! Give it a try!

11. Fried Mochi

Are you searching for a simple, sweet mochi recipe? This Fried Mochi is perfect for you! You will enjoy the perfect mix of crispy and chewy goodness with only three ingredients!

How To Cook Kiri Mochi

To cook Kiri mochi, you can try the methods below. Be cautious not to overcook the Kiri mochi, as it may become tough.

Toaster oven – Preheat a toaster oven to 390°F (200°C) and place the kiri mochi in the oven. Bake for 5 minutes until the kiri mochi puffs up and turns slightly golden.
Dry frying pan – Heat the pan over medium heat and place the kiri mochi on the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom becomes slightly golden, then flip it over and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden and puffy.

Storage

Keep Kiri mochi in a cool, dark place and away from direct sunlight. Once you cook it, individually wrap each mochi piece in plastic and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, soak the mochi in hot water for a few minutes to soften.

More Kiri Mochi Recipes To Try

Chikara udon – A piece of kiri mochi is placed on top of the hot udon noodle soup. The word “Chikara” in Japanese means “power” or “strength,” which reflects the nourishing and energizing qualities of this dish.
Rice crackers (age mochi) – These crackers are wonderful snacks made by deep frying kiri mochi until they become crispy and coated with sugar. This was my childhood snack.
Mochi Ice Cream – Wrapping scoops of your favorite ice cream with softened mochi is absolutely delicious.

Your Questions Answered

Where can I find Kiri Mochi?

You can typically find Kiri Mochi in well-stocked Japanese or Asian grocery stores. Additionally, some larger supermarkets with an international foods section may carry it. You might consider checking online retailers like Amazon and Walmart as well. This Sato no kiri mochi is the most famous brand and is pre-cut with a slit, which makes it easier to break apart by hand and cook evenly.

What does Kiri Mochi taste like?

Kiri mochi is not sweetened but has a subtle, slightly sweet flavor from glutinous rice.

What is Kiri Mochi made of?

Kiri mochi is made from glutinous rice that has been steamed, pounded, and shaped into small, rectangular blocks. The rice is short-grain glutinous rice, also known as sweet rice or mochi rice.

Can you microwave kiri mochi?

Yes! Place kiri mochi in a bowl with enough water to cover it and microwave it until it becomes soft. The mochi texture is different, but this method is time-saving as it takes only a few minutes and requires minimal effort.

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I hope you enjoy these Kiri Mochi Recipes! If you try it, don’t forget to leave a rating to share your thoughts—I love hearing from you!