The Food Pursuit
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Summers in Tokyo are characterized by extreme humidity to the point where one would be sweating from lifting an arm. There was never a sweat-free day. Showers take place throughout the day. The Japanese government launched an energy saving campaign following its nuclear troubles which led to many stores and trains cutting down on air conditioning, a halt in escalator operation, and a dimmer city. This meant occasional visits to the ice cream store were a must.
Peanut Mochi (or Nuomici) is a dessert that can be found in Chinese bakeries or supermarkets across town. The problem is I’m particularly picky when it comes to peanut mochi. The rice flour can’t be too tough nor too thick, the filling shouldn’t be sparse, the peanut shouldn’t be too coarse nor too fine, to name a few. I have a serious problem I know! But let me tell you this, I found the perfect mochi for me and will describe how awesome it really is as well as where you can find it. Then maybe we can all appreciate how good a mochi should be.
Jiufen is a small town in Taipei County, specifically Ruifang (Rueifang) Township, of northern Taiwan. The town is characterized by teahouses, remarkable views, and a relaxing atmosphere which make it a popular choice for short stays and visits. The name Jiufen means ‘nine portions’ in Chinese. History tells us that the name came from the Qing Dynasty where only nine families lived in the village, and would require nine portion shipments of everything. On a side note, there is also a Shifen (ten portions) in Taiwan. Maybe that village housed ten families alike?
Torontonians! Are you having CNE withdrawal? Or maybe you miss the wonderful summer we’ve been lucky to have. I love winter but sometimes I wish that summer would come faster. It’s only fall. I think it has to do with the gloomy weather that winter always bring, heavy snowfall which translates to snow shoveling, poor Toronto traffic, and desire to hibernate with a cup of hot chocolate. Actually, that hot chocolate doesn’t sound so bad. But it’s really depressing when you look out the window and see nothing but thick, dark clouds. So I think I found the solution to get me through this coming winter, Tiny Tom Donuts.
Wai Yuen Tong is a century old company that develops products based on Chinese medicine and ancient formulas passed down from generation to generation. Aside from having traditional Chinese medicine shops all over Hong Kong, Wai Yuen Tong also makes packaged products so that people from all over the world can enjoy their offerings for healthier living. I frequently purchase Wai Yuen Tong’s herbal jelly snack but on a recent trip to the supermarket, I noticed Wai Yuen Tong launched a new similar product.
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