Making Mochi

Mochi is great. It's basically a thick condensed/compressed rice cake. Yesterday I had the privilege of watching some folks make it (and have a go at it myself), and though I've seen it before I don't think we've ever posted about it here. So the (very abbreviated guide to mochi-making:

1. overcook several cups of rice until it's soft & fluffy

2. hit it with a giant mallet until it's a dough-like glob

3. break up and roll into small pieces and let it cool/harden

4. Cover with various flavorings or throw it in some soup and enjoy.

Step number two is obviously everyone's favorite. (Rightfully so) I handed off my camera to get a shot of me pounding away with the mallet, but Mr. Yamada apparently didn't feel like bothering. Supposedly someone else has a shot of it. Maybe I'll get a copy some day. About to go eat my mochi leftovers as a mid-afternoon snack.