Japan's Wagashi

We start with the traditional Japanese candy called 'Wagashi'. In contrast to sweets that are in general called 'Kashi' or 'O-kashi' , 'Wagashi' is a particular candy with a long tradition and history. 'Wa' means Japanese and 'Gashi' means candy. 
It is separated into three different types : 
Namagashi (raw; 30% water)
Han- Namagashi (30%-10% water. The one in between)
Higashi (dry; 10% water)



These sweets are most often made of pure vegetable ingredients of high quality, mostly

-azuki beans
-rice
-cereals
-sugar of a high quality and
-edges (a gelling agent made of algae)

Nuts and seeds are mainly used as decoration, but flowers, leaves and fruits are also used for decoration and create a special flavour. It is mostly served at tea time.