Furikake facts for kids
Furikake (say it: foo-ree-KAH-kay) is a popular seasoning mix from Japan. People usually sprinkle it over plain, cooked rice to add lots of flavor and a nice crunch. It's like a special topping that makes a simple meal much more exciting! A small amount of furikake usually has about 6 calories.
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What is Furikake?
Furikake is a type of condiment, which means it's something you add to food to make it taste better. It's a dry mix, so it's easy to store and use whenever you want. While it's most famous for being put on rice, some people also use it on noodles, vegetables, or even popcorn!
What's in Furikake?
The main ingredients in furikake are usually:
- Dried and ground fish (like salmon or bonito)
- Sesame seeds, which add a nutty flavor and crunch
- Chopped seaweed (often nori), giving it a savory taste
- A little bit of sugar for sweetness
- Salt for flavor
- Sometimes, it also contains monosodium glutamate (MSG) to boost the savory taste, or other things like dried eggs, vegetables, or even wasabi.
All these ingredients are dried and mixed together to create a delicious and balanced flavor.
How to Enjoy Furikake
The most common way to eat furikake is to sprinkle it generously over a bowl of hot, steamed rice. The warmth of the rice helps to release the flavors of the furikake. It's a quick and easy way to add protein, minerals, and flavor to a meal. Many Japanese families have furikake as a staple in their kitchens because it's so versatile and tasty.
The History of Furikake
Furikake has an interesting history! It was first created in the early 20th century in Japan. At that time, many people in Japan didn't get enough calcium in their diets. A pharmacist named Suekichi Yoshimaru wanted to help. He created a mix of ground fish bones, sesame seeds, and other ingredients. This mix was meant to be sprinkled on rice to make it more nutritious.
His invention was called "Gohan no Tomo," which means "a friend for rice." This early version was very popular and helped many people get important nutrients. Over time, other companies started making similar products, and the name "furikake" became common for all these rice seasonings.
Images for kids
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Gohan no Tomo is considered to be an early version of furikake.
See also
In Spanish: Furikake para niños
