Nerikiri Wagashi-Making with Tea Ceremony

Nerikiri is a refined type of wagashi, traditional Japanese confectionery, known for its delicate beauty and artistic designs. It's made primarily from white bean paste (shiro-an) and mochi (glutinous rice cake), allowing it to be kneaded and molded into intricate shapes representing seasons or nature. Unlike other wagashi, which can include dorayaki or mochi, Nerikiri is distinguished by its pliable texture and suitability for detailed sculpting, making it a highlight in wagashi-making classes.

In a hands-on class, making Nerikiri dough typically involves several steps. First, white bean paste is mixed with a small amount of glutinous rice flour (mochiko) and water, then gently cooked until it reaches a pliable, dough-like consistency. This mixture is then kneaded and rested, allowing it to become smooth and elastic. Sometimes natural food colorings are added to create vibrant hues for shaping, preparing it for artistic transformation.

The Nerikiri wagashi-making experience is designed to be accessible for beginners with no prior experience. Expert instructors guide participants step-by-step through each stage, from preparing the dough to artistic shaping and coloring techniques. The focus is on enjoying the creative process and learning traditional methods, making it an engaging and rewarding activity for all skill levels.

Traditional Nerikiri wagashi-making employs specialized tools to achieve its intricate designs. These often include wooden spatulas (hera), fine sieves, and small carving tools for delicate shaping. Techniques involve precise kneading to achieve the right dough texture, careful coloring using natural dyes, and artistic molding to create seasonal motifs like cherry blossoms or autumn leaves, reflecting the artisan's skill and heritage.

Nerikiri wagashi is esteemed for its blend of culinary artistry and cultural significance. Each piece is a miniature edible sculpture, meticulously crafted to reflect the beauty of Japan's seasons and natural world. Its preparation involves precise traditional techniques passed down through generations, emphasizing harmony and aesthetic balance. Serving Nerikiri is integral to the tea ceremony, symbolizing hospitality and respect, making it a profound cultural expression.

The traditional tea ceremony experience complementing Nerikiri wagashi includes learning the etiquette of Japanese tea preparation and consumption. Participants will enjoy freshly whisked matcha tea, served in traditional bowls, alongside the Nerikiri sweets they've crafted. This integrated experience highlights the harmonious pairing of bitter tea with sweet wagashi, deepening understanding of Japanese culinary and cultural traditions.

Yes, the Nerikiri wagashi-making experience is designed to be inclusive for participants with dietary needs. It is gluten-free and vegan-friendly, ensuring that a wider range of guests can enjoy learning this traditional craft. Ingredients are carefully selected to accommodate these requirements, allowing everyone to create and savor their beautiful wagashi creations.

In the wagashi-making class, participants will learn to create three distinct Nerikiri sweets from scratch. While specific designs may vary by season or instructor, they typically feature intricate motifs inspired by nature, such as seasonal flowers, leaves, or festive symbols. This provides a comprehensive introduction to various shaping techniques and artistic expressions within Nerikiri craftsmanship.