Akumaki facts for kids
Akumaki (あくまき) is a special Japanese sweet treat. It's a type of wagashi, which means traditional Japanese confection. People in Kagoshima, Miyazaki, and Kumamoto Prefecture often eat Akumaki. They usually enjoy it on May 5th for Children's Day, also known as the Boys' Festival. Akumaki is similar to a Chinese sweet called zongzi, which is also eaten on a special day.
How Akumaki is Made
Akumaki is made using glutinous rice. This rice is soaked overnight in a special liquid called lye. Lye is a strong, watery solution that helps change the rice. After soaking, the rice is wrapped in a skin from a bamboo plant. This bamboo skin has also been soaked in lye.
Because Akumaki has a slightly bitter taste, people usually eat it with other things. They often add a mix of sugar and kinako. Kinako is a powder made from toasted soybeans. Sometimes, a little salt is added, or the Akumaki is soaked in honey. Its unique flavor might take some getting used to!
A Bit of History
Akumaki has a long history. It is believed that it was first made as a food that could last a long time. Samurai, who were ancient Japanese warriors, took Akumaki with them to battles. This helped them have food during long trips or fights. For example, it might have been used during the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. It may also have been used during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598).
Later, a famous samurai named Saigō Takamori (1821–1877) also used Akumaki. He took it as food that wouldn't spoil during the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877. Because of this rebellion, Akumaki became very popular. It spread to the northern parts of Miyazaki Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture.
Where to Find Akumaki
Akumaki can be kept for about one week at room temperature. If you put it in a refrigerator, it can last for about two weeks. You can even freeze it to keep it longer.
While many people still make Akumaki at home, you can also buy it. You might find vacuum-packed Akumaki sold as a souvenir. Since the Kyushu Shinkansen (a fast train line) opened, Akumaki has become more well-known. It is now seen as a "slow food," meaning it's a traditional food made with care. You can buy Akumaki in hotels in Kagoshima. It's also sold at roadside stations (called michi no eki), online, and in supermarkets across Kagoshima prefecture.
See also
In Spanish: Akumaki para niños
