練り切り （ねりきり / Nerikiri）
Traditional Japanese sweet made from sweetened bean paste
- Category
- Sweets / Dessert
- Main Ingredient
- Others
Nerikiri is a Japanese confection made from kneaded white bean paste and sugar. Crafted into seasonal motifs, flowers, and birds, it emphasizes aesthetic beauty and resembles edible art.
When / How to Eat
Nerikiri is typically enjoyed with matcha or sencha tea, often served in tea ceremonies or specialty wagashi shops. It is also a popular seasonal gift.
Cultural Background
Nerikiri has evolved since the Edo period, focusing on visual beauty and seasonal themes. Its limited ingredients highlight the skill and creativity of artisans, making it an emblem of Japanese confectionery culture.
Cautions
Nerikiri is delicate and perishable; it should be stored away from direct sunlight in a cool place and consumed promptly.