#rice wine and Amazake

[pickletrip]

Bon appetit has given me the difference between Rice wine and Amazake.

#bon appetit #kbl #korean bl series #korean bl drama #koreanbl #bl drama #yoon soo #doo hoon #rice wine and Amazake #these shows are always educating me #thank you kbl

[gabelesimp]

Okay, This is some hardcore shit but-

TW: Drinking, Alcohol

But, how high is their alcohol tolerance?

Both Humans and Gods!!

Norse Pantheon!

Valkyries: Brunhilde, Hrist, Geirölul and Thrud may have a high tolerance for alcohol, only Wine and Spirit.

Thor and Odin: Yes.

Loki: Can only handle Wine(Idk, there's not many stories of him drinking in Norse mythology)

Seigfried: (How the fuck do you spell his name- I keep forgetting-) Yes.

Greek Pantheon!!

Zeus: Yes, but he'd throw up after.

Poseidon: Prefers Wine.

Hades: Same as Poseidon, but likes Champagne and sometimes likes gin.

Hermes: Just Wine.

Ares: He has a bit of a weak tolerance, and would totally black out.

Aphrodite: Same as Hermes.

Heracles: He doesn't drink (I mean, just look at him, does he drink??)

Apollo: Yes. He has a high tolerance, but only drinks during occasions.

Leonidas: Yes, Wine is at its finest. He would probably like Beer, Vodka and Margaritas once he tried them.

Hindu Pantheon!!

Shiva, Indra and Rudra: Fucking High. And of course, they like Mahua or rice beer or wine.

Shiva's wives(yes the three of them.): Take it lightly, and just drink for fun! Rice wine or if they want to take it to the next, Rum.

Asia!!

Seven Lucky Gods: Yes, except the young one (I forgot who they are-) Benzaiten loves to get drunk, while Bishamonten would scold her.

Zerofuku: No. The Innocent boy doesn't drink.

Buddha: kinda? Lol, drunk after two glasses

Kojiro Sasaki: Maybe? Gramps likes Sake or Amazake.

Okita: No.

Kintoki: Yes. Likes Awamori.

Qin Shi Huang: Yes. There's nothing that a king can't handle! Loves Osmanthus wine, Huangjiu and Baijiu.

Raiden: Yes, but doesn't drink often. Sake is his to go.

Lu Bu: Idk, He's like the type to likes to drink but doesn't at the same time-

Europe!!

Jack the Ripper: No, I don't think he drinks.

Nikola Tesla: Kinda? Often busy to drink.

Science crew: Newton has a high Tolerance, Marie and Noble do too. Galileo would take it easy, Einstein would too. But, Edison. He's a party animal-

Bible!!

Adam: No. He doesn't know what Alcohol is. (Including his family.)

Beelzebub: Maybe? Hades would invite him over for some wine.

Lilith: Yes, Wine Momma.

Lucifer: Lol, Yes. He loves Rum.

(RAAAAAAAA IDK ANYMOREEE)

Honorary Mentions: @average-lovejoy-listener, @kushii-huang, @riseofamoonycake ❣️❣️

#record of ragnarok #snv #poseidon snv #snv tesla #hades snv #snv beelzebub #ror zeus #snv leonidas #snv Siegfried #ror apollo #snv shiva #ror indra #snv rudra #ror raiden tameemon #ror buddha #ror sasaki kojiro

[9w1ft]

While we’re talking about hot beverages… are there hot drinks that aren’t tea/coffee that are popular in Japan this time of year? As an American, my favorite non-caffeinated seasonal drinks are hot chocolate and hot apple cider. But I don’t know if those are popular outside the US! Totally random question, I’m just curious. 😊

oh! well, in terms of popular ‘foreign’ seasonal drinks, mulled wine is pretty popular.

another more native winter beverage is something called amazake, which is a drink made of fermented rice and is often flavored with ginger. there are non-alcoholic and low alcoholic versions. it’s an acquired taste but it’s very nutritious!

oh and hot lemon yuzu drink is popular too, i guess! it’s basically a hot lemonade except very syrupy with a strong yuzu flavor. feels great if you have a sore throat.

it’s also sorta popular (at least i always get it if i go out drinking in the winter) to drink sake hot, served from a tea kettle. the colloquial term is “atsukan” and you share the kettle with your friends 🍶

#there’s this hot sake drink that comes with an eel bone in it that i like as well

[cebwrites]

Also write something for you. Write Law and his boyfriend watching movies together <3 or something for your own soul.

i will!! i already wrote something self-indulgent for law tonight, but this prompted another idea to crop in my head so i hope you don't mind me using this to air it out <33

drunk HCs (Kirin, Reiji, Rio)

mostly oc x oc, law and katakuri are mentioned once(1) word count: 0.6k

Kirin

Man rarely gets drunk, if ever

He drinks a lot, enough to keep up with the likes of Zoro, even, laughing obnoxiously and partying it up with the other resident alcoholics like frat bros without the misogyny - just guys being lads <3

But it’s only around other people and never when he’s feeling upset

Kirin avoids drinking alone, if even one or two other people joins him then that’s enough, though in this case rather than being howdy and partying it up, it’s almost like he gets-

Somber?? Somber.

For once, he doesn’t crack jokes, isn’t even playful or snide about anything, he’s just-- plain and open about his feelings with these one or two people who had the misfortune of catching the silly lil guy, the resident trickster, when he wasn’t goofing around

Kirin doesn’t like being vulnerable like this, it makes him feel icky and the hangovers worse he feels - if he wants to have a heart to heart with someone he’d much rather do it sober than with the ply of alcohol

Law come pick him up Kirin needs to be held (he’ll spend the next morning sleeping all those feelings off in the Heart captain’s room surrounded by Law’s nice smelling clothes)

Reiji

A miserable light-weight

Reiji starts getting tinted ears after the first one and a half drinks and it's only downhill from there, it won't be long until he's fully red in the face, slurring his words, and sleepily trying to cuddle anyone who resembles his partners within his periphery

Or, in at least a handful of cases, actively avoiding Kirin trying to help him to bed because, "he's a taken man, dammit!" before he drunkenly wonders if he even is one, then promptly falls asleep on the tatami, couch, wherever he can rest his head semi-comfortably

And that's entirely why Reiji usually spends his time at the party either in the kitchen, or spoiling his captain with Kirin's head in his lap

For how drunk he gets, though? Surprisingly little hangover, man can pop an aspirin, reorient himself for ten minutes, and then go about his day like he didn’t get absolutely shitfaced the night before on maybe three to four drinks, at most

Reiji does, however, like making amazake or other kinds of rice wines, for the people on his ship that enjoy alcohol, as a hobby

Rio

Holds his alcohol pretty well and knows when to stop because he has morons to corral into bed who can and will get into shit if left unsupervised

Rio maintains a pleasant buzz throughout the night until half an hour before it’s time to leave, sober up, and then pack their clowns to go

By far the most responsible drinker by a longshot, especially in comparison to her beloved crew (she does love them, they just piss him off sometimes a lot of the time)

But still the one saddled with the worst hangover out of all of them because god must think it’s funny 

There can’t be a shred of light in the room when he wakes up otherwise Rio’s eyeballs and cranium feel like they’re going to explode

Let alone any noise, GOD, if anyone so much as breathes too loudly in his direction he’ll tell them to shut the fuck up

There’s little else they can do about it other than cover his eyes and maybe cry into his husband’s giant tits until the pounding in his head subsides - Katakuri a comfortable mattress hubby, if not a little concerned

The general rule on Kirin’s crew is that if Rio’s drinking, then Izzy isn’t - and vice versa, to make sure that at least two people will still be functional enough the next day if Lady Luck frowned on them with another Grand Line-typical disaster, hostile pirates, or the navy

#cebwrites #one piece #op oc #one piece oc #op kirin #op rio #op reiji #lawrin #rekilaw #katario #disclaimer cev does not drink #i just think these little scenarios are funny #akjdfbskgdfn

[clatterbane]

I may be experimenting with some rice wine sooner than I expected, after seeing someone mention that the yogurt incubation setting on the Instant Pot may have actually been intended for culturing this. It apparently does get used that way a lot. Just happens to also be good temperature conditions for yogurt too.

Pretty much the same thing as amazake, and you can either use it sweet or then add yeast to ferment those freed-up sugars. Very much like the malting step in making beer or whiskey mash.

I had been thinking that it would be a good plan to wait until summer to try and culture some, when it should hopefully be easier to maintain the right temperatures without more elaborate setups in this climate. But, seeing it explicitly pointed out that we are looking at pretty much yogurt conditions and I do have something to do that with easily made me want to try messing around with that sooner.

#personal #redneck brewing #tentative plans #rice wine #the chinese strains seem easier overall than koji to work with #so we're probably trying that

[newsupdatedaily]

Miso, mirin, amazake: A guide to using Asian fermented foods - fitness

Miso, mirin, amazake: A guide to using Asian fermented foods – fitness

Fermented foods like tempeh (a soy-based alternative to tofu), miso (a paste of fermented soybean, barley and koji), mirin (rice wine used in cooking) and amazake (a drink made from fermented rice) are selling online and offline, and being incorporated into recipes, in India’s increasingly health-conscious cities.

Apart from the umami flavour they add to dishes, they are…

View On WordPress

#Amazake #apanese restaurant Edo at the ITC Gardenia #Asian cuisine #Asian restaurants Foo and Koko #Beverage #Digestion #Fermented food #Fortis Memorial Research Institute #Gastrointestinal health #Immunity #Koji #Marinades #Mikusu restaurant #Mirin #Miso #Mumbai’s Hinduja hospital #Pebble Street Hospitality #Probiotics #Ramen #Rice wine #Sauces #Soy based #Sweedal Trinidade #Tempeh #Teriyaki #Umami

[secondhand-trash]

hey if youre still accepting asks for your drink tolerance + character game, what about kita and someone (me) who doesnt know what her tolerance is bc she rarely drinks?

Amazake WHICH isn’t actually alcoholic, it’s just sweet fermented rice being thinned out by water. Kita is a responsible man, he has no interest to test your limits. He makes his one sweet rice wine paste and he’s very proud of it, just like how he’s proud of his rice. He might give himself something a bit stronger though, his eyes going brighter and brighter with each sip as he watched you behind the rim of his glass.

#ask game #cadence rambles #sadflightlessbirds #tbh I wasn’t really planning to answer more asks after I wake up but I see kita and I just wanna…

[brainwashingdetective]

A3! Translation: ODAIRISAMA PANIC! Epilogue - A Fun Hinamatsuri

------------------

Omi: Dinner’s ready. I made chirashizushi and clear clam soup from the clams we won.

Kumon: Awesome! It feels a lot like Hinamatsuri!

Taichi: It looks super delicious!

Kazunari: The food arrangements are so bright and colorful! Way to go Omimi~!

Banri: Hey, I got a whole bunch of hina-arare too. [1]

Omi: Okay, let’s have them after dinner.

Izumi: We’re eating dinner while looking at the hina dolls… It feels kinda nice~

Tsumugi: It really does.

Azuma: Guy and I went out and bought shirozake and sake. We also got amazake for the minors. [2]

Tenma: Amazake, huh.

Citron: Wonderful~! I would like to drink both sake and amazake!

------------------

Yuki: ……

Masumi: …What’re you doing?

Yuki: Not much. I was looking at the hina dolls and thinking how rare it is to see them displayed like this.

Masumi: That’s it?

Yuki: ……

…It’s nothing important, but…

You know how Hinamatsuri’s an event for girls?

When I was little, I was jealous of the dolls that were laid out for my sisters.

Boys had to decorate with helmets on Children’s Day, right? [3]

I always admired the Ohina-sama and her sparkling outfit. I loved seeing them like that.

Masumi: ……

Yuki: There’s dolls at my family’s house, but I wanted to see them displayed at the dorm too.

So even though our goals were different, I was with you about wanting hina dolls.

We might have not gotten them as the prize, but I’m glad we got to see the dolls displayed like this.

I got to wear a cute costume during the contest too. Personally, I thought this was fun.

Masumi: …You should make her a costume too one day.

Yuki: Well, I’ll think about it.

Anyway, we should put these hina dolls away once Hinamatsuri ends.

Or else the Director might get married late. [4]

Masumi: I’m not worried about that, she’ll be my bride.

Yuki: Yeah, yeah… You’re seriously dogged.

------------------

Yuki: ……

Kazunari: Hey, Yukkii! You came at just the right time!

Yuki: What is it?

Kazunari: Ta-dah~! Check this out!

Yuki: What’s this? A gold folding screen and tatami mats?

Kazunari: It’s a Hinamatsuri set my school used during their open house! They were gonna toss it, so I took it~

When I set it up like this, the courtyard becomes a Hinamatsuri photo spot! How about that?!

Yuki: That’s our party animal… Doing things differently.

Kazunari: Isn’t this a great idea~?!

Masumi: ……

Kazunari: Hey Massu! You gotta see this too!

Masumi: …What?

Kazunari: It’s a Hinamatsuri-themed photo spot! Ain’t it super cool?!

Masumi: ——!

I can take a hina doll-styled couple’s photo with the Director…!

Hey, go make her a costume right away.

Yuki: Don’t be ridiculous.

Kazunari: Huh? Hey, what’re you guys talking about~?!

------------------

< Previous Chapter

TL Notes:

A sweet, rice puff snack commonly eaten during Hinamatsuri. They kinda look like pastel-colored cheese puffs.

Sake is the rice wine drink we all know and love (the original text is 日本酒). Shirozake is a sweet variation of sake also commonly drunk during Hinamatsuri. Amazake is a sweet, non-alcoholic rice drink.

On Children’s Day (formerly known as Boy’s Day), it’s tradition to display samurai armor so that sons could grow up strong and healthy. Nowadays, people tend to make paper origami samurai helmets (or kabuto) for decoration.

A common superstition was that if one doesn’t put the dolls away once Hinamatsuri ended, then the daughters would marry late (this was probably to encourage people to put the dolls away before they get damaged by the rainy season and humidity that came after the holiday).

After two months, I’m finally finished with this event story! Thank you for your patience! I should be starting a new job sometime soon (whenever they finish HR things that is), so here’s hoping that I’ll finish the final part of the Tetsuro TL by then!

#a3! #a3! act! addict! actors! #a3! translation #yuki rurikawa #masumi usui #kazunari miyoshi #omi fushimi #izumi tachibana #tsumugi tsukioka #taichi nanao #kumon hyodo #tenma sumeragi #azuma yukishiro #banri settsu #a3 citron #mae tl #event story

[serenetic]

Creation Day Celebration Masterpost

What is Creation Day Celebration?

Main Story

Blockhead

“Natto and Umeshu walked around the festival and found a famous marksman. He’s a little bit of a blockhead, though.”

1. Gift from God

2. Class visits

3. The legendary Amazake

4. Shooting game is as difficult as currying a favor with someone

For the sake of my love for Jello

“We have to take back Jello’s love. He, who had mistakenly intruded upon a fan meeting, experiences the worst disaster in his life?”

5. “Family” that got separated

6. Words from a fan

7. Take back the love!

8. Don’t try this out!

It’s Okonomiyaki’s turn?!

“A shopping girl should the main focus of a beauty pageant! After eating some delicious food, Okonomiyaki headed for the contest venue, but...?”

9. Delicious!

10. A mother’s flavor

11. A special show

12. Shopping girl is always busy

Gourmet lethality

“Natto had never known until that day. Cooking, in fact, can be used to repel Fallen Angel too.”

13. A brave boy

14. His aim is to be a champion

15. The fool

16. Don’t try this out! Part 2

Aggressive samurai

“The samurai, surrounded by cats, once again took up the scooper. Will he finally succeed in scooping up a goldfish this time around?”

17. Out of print book

18. Getting lost

19. Failed ambush

20. Don’t try this out! Part 3

Aah!

“The tied down Amazake finally confessed after getting tormented. It’s definitely not because it wanted to steal the mask!”

21. Coincidence

22. 「The Chronicler」

23. Jump!

24. Unclear

Here comes the “Nukumen Boys”!

“Oden stopped the impulsive Okonomiyaki and, with face full of smiles, chided her to listen to others until they’re done talking.”

25. Special scoop

26. Inescapable relationship

27. Daikon radish and bamboo shoot

28. Listen to the very end

If I don’t get it right, then you don’t have to pay me!

“Huangshan Maofeng almost has his shop destroyed. At such emergency situation, what appeared before his eyes is...”

29. The legendary fortune teller

30. Signs of marriage

31. Out of the mouth comes evil

32. Words to you

Exchange or rob?

“Arriving in the sweetly smelled Dessert Street, they encountered the reinforcements Amazake brought?!”

33. Go north from here

34. The patissier isn’t good with words

35. Rage

36. Fearsome Fallen Angel

Under the fireworks

“Under the fireworks the marks the end of the festival, each of them prayed for their wish to come true.”

37. Changeover

38. A persistent customer

39. Who?

40. Firework of wish

Side Story

Hilena Campus Festival

1-1 Unsolvable mystery

1-2 Be careful!

1-3 Aura

1-4 Neither too close nor too distant

1-5 One more pack

1-6 Don’t bother me

1-7 I want you to tell me that I’m the best!

1-8 Fateful encounter

1-9 I told you, don’t bother me

1-10 Borrowing for awhile

Tamakyo Temple Fair

2-1 An example of wrong method of playing

2-2 Famous competition

2-3 Convenient game

2-4 Reliable Strawberry

2-5 Easy-hit shooting game

2-6 Boss’s business

2-7 Don’t casually trying it out!

2-8 Forget about mahjong please

2-9 Realgar Wine and mapo manju

2-10 King’s compulsory lesson

Lake of Ice Tears Carnival

3-1 Open your eyes, coward!

3-2 You’re just as cute!

3-3 Mask’s blessing

3-4 Ordinary is the best!

3-5 Cheering is a type of study

3-6 Desiring for the legend

3-7 Concert in midair

3-8 Daily life

3-9 Within expectation

3-10 Mutual understanding

Moonrise Festival

4-1 Zoo

4-2 A mermaid’s song

4-3 Similar radiance

4-4 In a way, a genius

4-5 Goldfish

4-6 An example of wrong method of eating

4-7 Oden’s insight

4-8 Blessed mask

4-9 Dangerous Food Soul

4-10 Confidential talk

Fireworks Show

5-1 Warning

5-2 Recipe

5-3 As one pleases

5-4 Unsolvable destiny

5-5 Endless path

5-6 Lost girl

5-7 River’s ghost

5-8 Coffee and fireworks

5-9 3000 Leagues in Search of Mother?!

5-10 Happy Ending!!

Letters from Food Soul

Rice

Peking Duck

Coffee

Sanma

Sukiyaki

Borscht

Wonton

Gingerbread

Pudding

Lion’s Head

#food fantasy #ff translations #serenetic translation #creation day celebration event

[yasbxxgie]

By the time I made the hike down the long pathway from the top of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari to the houses below, I was thirsty. Which was convenient, since many local residents take advantage of foot traffic from the mountainside Shinto shrine by hosting small cafes in their homes. It was on that winding street that I first encountered amazake, an ancient, non-alcoholic, lightly fermented rice drink, which a helpful English sign noted could be served “hot or cold”.

I looked at the faintly sweet and creamy drink as a reward for my physical activity, one that, like kombucha, promised to replenish me after physical activity. But what my ¥400 (£3) bought me was actually a microcosm of Japanese culinary history.

First developed in the Kofun period (around 250 to 538AD), amazake was originally a food fermentation and preservation technique, created by boiling rice, water and koji, a filamentous fungus that is also used in the fermentation of miso, natto and soy sauce, for eight to 10 hours. The resulting drink, which is packed full of nutrients and gut-friendly bacteria, became so popular that it’s even mentioned in the Nihon Shoki, a text compiled in 720AD that comprises the oldest official history of Japan.

Since then, the drink has seen several rises and falls in popularity. Sales jumped 134.8% between 2016 and 2017, according to food and drink exhibition Foodex Japan, at the time that at-home fermentation became a trendy pastime. The drink then continued its popularity in 2019, thanks in no small part to boyband Kanjani Eight, who were hired to act as spokespeople for Hiyashi Amazake, a popular brand throughout Japan. Amazake also has a regular presence in cafes and convenience stores across the country, with locals sipping on it as a morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up.

Hiroshi Sugihara (杉原大), a fishmonger and fermentation enthusiast originally from Japan’s Aichi prefecture who relocated to Perth, Australia, has seen the rise of fermentation culture firsthand. His Facebook group THE BREW LIFE-発酵生活 has swelled to more than 5,900 members worldwide since its creation in 2014. Already a fan of fermenting miso and doburoku (a form of sake), he enjoyed introducing amazake, a drink from his childhood, to the group.

“It was very interesting and there were mixed reactions from Caucasian [members] but Asians were able to relate [it] to some of their traditional sweets,” he said.

Sugihara fondly recalls drinking hot amazake at temples on New Year’s Eve. Because the beverage is believed to have warming qualities (particularly due to ginger, which is often used to add flavour), it tends to be heavily consumed during the winter months, a period that includes several major holidays, including the Hinamatsuri “Doll Festival”. This has resulted in many Japanese people considering the drink as a tie to both their past and current national culture. As Shihoko Ura, author of food blog Chopstick Chronicles explains, her memories of amazake are laced with a fair amount of sentimentality, particularly now that she’s migrated to Australia.

“I used to be a Red Cross-trained RN in Ise City, Mie prefecture, where there is [the] famous Ise Shrine,” she recalled. “Ise shrine served free amazake for worshippers, and we first-aid employees were also offered the drink. I was always looking forward to the sweet treat when I had a little break in [my] eight-hour shift.”

Amazake is a sugary drink, as hinted at by its name, which translates to “sweet sake”, even though it only contains trace amounts of alcohol due to the fermentation process. Because of that translation, finding it in convenience stores can be tricky for non-Japanese speakers, who should consider asking for a brand name, such as Hiyashi Amazake or Marumi-koji-honten to avoid being served alcoholic sake instead.

As I sipped on my drink, I was surprised by the lumpy texture, similar to rice porridge, due to the small pieces of koji suspended in the liquid. At roughly 80 calories per 100g, it’s healthier than its creamy texture might initially imply, and fans of amazake claim it can positively impact seemingly every part of the body, including hair growth, weight loss, hangover recovery, sleep cycles and bowel movements.

Because of its nutrients, which include B6, folic acid, ferulic acid, dietary fibre and a notable amount of glucose, many claim it deserves a place in Japan’s stable of hangovers cures, which includes beverages made from turmeric or beef liver, ingredients meant to clean a specific organ. And amazake’s drinkable, easy-to-digest, gluten-free nutrients have also earned it the nickname “drinkable IV”, something that Sugihara confirms from experience.

“I usually have it when I have cold or fever and especially when I don’t have an appetite,” he said. “Amazake is something easier to swallow, yummy, and, thanks to the power of starch-breaking enzyme [found in the koji], it’s sort of pre-digested so kind to the digestive system, too.”

Its qualities are also thought to go beyond health benefits. As Misaki (文咲), a model and Spa LaQua ambassador in Tokyo explains, the drink is also loved by the beauty community. “Vitamin B group contained in amazake is related to metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins, skin and hair,” she told me via email. “Therefore, beauty effects are expected. Amazake also contains an ingredient called ergothioneine, an antioxidant that has the effect of suppressing skin aging.”

But with any food touted as an ancient cure-all, the big question remains. Does it actually work?

Adam Yee, an Austin-based food scientist and host of the podcast My Food Job Rocks, agrees that the minerals and vitamins contained in amazake will help the appearance of skin and hair – if consumed in large amounts. But he also says that the power of suggestion plays a large part in determining a food’s worth. He cited bone broth’s spike in popularity, a beverage that made many similar claims, as one example of good PR. However, he also made it clear that because amazake has an element that’s still very hard to scientifically account for, there may be some hidden, unaccounted truth to these claims.

“Fermentation is something that we really don’t know much about,” he explained. “It’s not like, give it one thing and [it] spits out another thing. Food is so complex, the koji that’s eating whatever it’s around, might actually create something different. You can say the same thing about yeast. Bread and wine are two different things, even though they use the same yeast strain.”

Currently, amazake is barely known outside of Asia. But that looks set to change. Like matcha, which has found its way into desserts both at home and abroad, amazake has become a ubiquitous part of Japanese cuisine, often extending past beverage status. Its continuing success outside of Japan was even predicted by America’s Test Kitchen, who named koji its number one food trend forecast for 2020.

John Sugimura (杉村), corporate executive chef and concept-brand director at PinKU Japanese Street Food in Minneapolis, has turned the drink into a signature part of his offerings, using it both as a creamy base and a way to add unexpected bursts of texture.

“I enjoy delicious baked goods including amazake for its nutrients,” he said. “For me growing up [with Japanese and German parents in the United States], I enjoyed amazake and banana smoothies. I have the most experience making pickles using amazake. And my greatest accomplishment has been incorporating amazake into my ‘sexy sesame dressing’ and salad.

This fusion of cultures may be what will eventually help amazake become a food trend outside of Japan, similar to the way kombucha and quinoa are now widely considered health foods outside their native regions of China/Russia and the Andean region of South America.

Atsushi Nakagawa (中川 貴司), owner of Amazake Co in California, agrees, noting that by linking it to already-popular products, he only has to provide his consumers with a basic introduction to the drink and its potential benefits. After completing apprenticeships at miso and koji microbreweries in Japan over the last few years, he’s pleased at how his knowledge of amazake has sparked the interest of his Los Angeles-based clientele, and how he’s been inspired to play with traditional flavours.

“They get it,” he said. “Especially they love our amazake-mixed latte drinks. We offer Japanese ceremonial matcha, Golden Milk (turmeric, ginger and cinnamon) and horchata flavours. In the last few weeks, more and more people are becoming interested in our Pure Amazake, which is undiluted, so they can use it however they want.”

It might be easy to think of amazake as another trendy food. After all, bone broth, Brussels sprouts and açaí have all seen spikes and falls in popularity. However, those who grew up with amazake see its resurgence within Japan and its gradual introduction outside the country as an opportunity to take pride in their culture. As Sugimura explains, it’s that mindset that encourages him to experiment with the drink’s benefits – and has informed much of his career in food as a whole.

“When I was young, I resisted many Japanese traditions out of fear for the code of etiquette,” he said. “As a third-generation Japanese-American lacking mentoring, there were so many expectations on social behaviour, I became overwhelmed. Fast forward, [and now] every day is a celebration of my Japanese-American heritage.”

Amazake is a cup of Japanese history, but the natural energy the beverage delivers still feels very relevant today. I finished my drink, and returned the glass to the cafe owner, ready to continue exploring Kyoto. It might have just been the superfood at work, but not only did I feel nourished, I felt connected, too.

#amazake #drinkable iv #fermentation #koji #japan #japanese #beverage #beverages #bbc #bbc news

[meg365]

4/365

Recipe of things we can do with sake kasu (sake lees, the by-product when producing Japanese rice wine).

Usually when we visit shrines at the beginning of the year we are greeted with sake or Amazake, made of sake kasu but this year, to avoid having too many people touching the same surfaces when being served there wasn’t any sake... but at one Shrine they gave us sake kasu so I had to rescue a paper I got from a sake shop with recipes we can do with it 😅.

[tokiotours]

Yokote Kamakura Festival The Yokote Kamakura Festival (横手の雪まつ, Yokote no Yuki Matsuri) has a history of about 450 years. It is held every year on February 15 and 16 in the city of Yokote in southeastern Akita Prefecture. The festival features many igloo-like snow houses, called kamakura, which are built at various locations across the city. Within each kamakura there is a snow altar dedicated to the water deity, to whom people pray for ample water. A charcoal brazier is set up to provide warmth and grill rice cakes. In the evenings (18:00 to 21:00), children invite festival visitors into their kamakura and offer them rice cakes and amazake, a type of warm sweet rice wine with zero or very low alcohol content. In return, the visitors make an offering to the water deity at the altar. The Kamakurakan Hall preserves a couple of kamakura all year round in a small -10 degree Celsius room, making it possible for visitors to see these snow houses even during warmer months. In the area close to the hall, many kamakura, snow sculptures and festival food stalls can be found, contributing to a lively atmosphere. 📸: Unknown #festival #横手の雪まつり #yukimatsuri #amazake #igloo #snowsculptures #iceroom #snowroom #akita #februaryfestival #festivalseason #japanesefestival #akita_pref #ricecakes #snowyfebruary #waterdeity #kamakurahut #kamakura #photography #temple #nature #buddha #travelphotography #kamakurajapan #shrinr #travel #japan https://www.instagram.com/p/CHVIAOulM27/?igshid=vbx22pu1lqsp

#festival #横手の雪まつり #yukimatsuri #amazake #igloo #snowsculptures #iceroom #snowroom #akita #februaryfestival #festivalseason #japanesefestival #akita_pref #ricecakes #snowyfebruary #waterdeity #kamakurahut #kamakura #photography #temple #nature #buddha #travelphotography #kamakurajapan #shrinr #travel #japan

[satalite-00]

Whispers in the Shadows

Eggnog: Oh… that wine jar… does it look familiar?

Rice looked in the direction Eggnog was pointing. The wine jar was encircled by a large number of rings, hanging at odd angles. It looked completely out of place next to the toys that littered the ground around it.

Rice: Ah! That’s-

Eggnog: Then I didn’t see wrong.

Stall Owner: Hey! Young man! You, over there! Don’t you want to win a doll for the young lady next to you!? My dolls are all super cute! Girls absolutely love ‘em!

Turkey: Hey, hey, hey! Why’d you ask him and not me?!?

Stall Owner: Aw, you can play too, little buddy! I’ve also got some neat cap guns!

Rice: Hee…

Eggnog: Bwahahahaha little buddy! He also has cap guns!

Rice: Guys, don’t, don’t, fight…

Eggnog: Ahem,,, shopkeep, we want that wine jar. How about it?

Stall Owner: Oh! You have good taste, young man. Of course you can have it! Just toss a ring over the top and it’s yours!

The trio walked over to the side of the stall, and observed the crowd of people as they played happily. They quickly discussed the matter.

Turkey: With this atmosphere, if we come right out and accuse him of stealing, it won’t go over well.

Rice: Mm-hm… everyone, looks so happy, and, I don’t think, this shopkeeper, is the one who stole it.

Eggnog: In that case… Just leave it to me!

Turkey: Eh?

Eggnog: Shopkeep, give me 10 rings. Rice, which doll do you want?

Rice: Eh---???

Matcha Rice: Wow this guy is amazing! Toso, come take a look!

Toso: He’s just tossing some rings. What’s there to get excited about?

Laba Congee: He’s really good. He’s looped the prize he wants every time.

Matcha Rice: Ah… that doll is really cute, I want one too…

Toso: ……..Shopkeep, give me a few rings as well.

Eggnog: Rice, which one do you want this time?

Rice: No, no more! I can’t, carry them all!

Turkey: I want that mask!

Eggnog: ….How old are you again?

Turkey: Glare---

Eggnog: Fine, fine, the mask it is! What else?

Turkey: That’s all I want! Heh heh, how can I participate in the festival without a mask?

As more and more people gathered around to watch Eggnog play, Rice and Turkey were pushed out of the crowd. But, having seen Eggnog’s skill, they were less anxious than before. They found a bench, and sat down to have a leisurely chat.

Turkey: Rice, what exactly IS that wine? It couldn’t be ordinary wine?

Rice: It’s, sacred wine, that was bestowed, by the Divine Lord. It’s, very valuable.

Turkey: Wow.. It sounds pretty incredible. Don’t worry, just let me and Eggnog handle this! We’ll definitely help you find it!

Rice: Mm-hm!

In a dark corner.

Tanuki: The Divine Lord’s vitality wine? That sounds kinda awesome! If I steal it and trade it to Aizen, he’ll have Amazake teach me how to make sakura sake!

Tanuki: And once the sake’s done brewin’, if I give it to Lady Inugami, she’s gonna be so happy!

Eggnog: Phew- and last but not least, our wine!

The entire crowd watched with bated breath as the tiny ring twirled precariously, then looped around the wine jar. As it slid to the ground, everyone burst out cheering.

Amidst the cheers and applause, Eggnog hugged the wine jar and the pile of colorful dolls, and squeezed his way out of the crowd. He walked over to Turkey and Rice.

Rice: Eggnog, you’re amazing, did you, win, all of those?

Turkey: Who’d have guessed? You actually have some skill!

Eggnog: After this many years of wooing women, do you think I’m all talk and no game? Come, Rice. Here’s your wine.

Rice: Thank, thank you.

Rice: Aaahhh---!!!

In a flash, a shadowy figure snatched the wine out of Rice’s hands and ran off.

Turkey: Who’s there?!? Freeze!

Tanuki: As if I’d listen to youse! Hee hee hee! The sacred wine is mine!

[Battle ends]

Turkey: Hmmph, now you know how awesome I am!

Eggnog: Tell us, who sent you to steal this wine?

Tanuki: Youse guys! Youse guys overdid it! A whole group of youse beatin’ up little ol’ me! Wah… wahhhhh!!!

Turkey: …..

Eggnog: …..

Rice: Don’t, don’t cry. We, won’t hit you, stop crying.

Who could have guessed? When Rice tried to comfort Tanuki, he took advantage of her distraction and jumped away, escaping to a perch high above them. He put his hands on his hips and shouted at Turkey and Eggnog.

Tanuki: Youse guys! Just you wait!!! I’ll be back! I’m gonna fine youse, and I’m gonna make youse pay!!! ...Oh! That’s right. All of youse but Rice! Hmph! You’re just a couple of bullies!

Tanuki had tears streaming down his face, but he also bore a triumphant expression. Suddenly, the trio didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.

Eggnog: He’s taken a liking to Rice, huh…

Turkey: ...Why was that speech so familiar?

Rice helplessly hugged the wine jar on the ground. She was about to heave a sigh of relief, when she apparently noticed that something was wrong, and twisted the jar around.

Rice: Ah- This, isn’t, the Divine Lord’s, sacred wine, either!

Turkey: Oh? This isn’t it either… then… where should we look next…?

Eggnog: We’ll search and keep searching, then we’ll retrace our steps. Don’t worry, Rice. We’ll definitely help you find it.

Rice: Mm-hm!

#joyouscelebration

[marcos008-blog]

rice field-7月のたんぼDSC_0241

7月のたんぼ a field of grain みずほ‐の‐くに〔みづほ‐〕瑞穂の国

rice 米／kome

Principal Japanese staple crop; an annual marshland plant of tropical origin; introduced into Japan in the Yayoi period (ca 300 BC− ca AD 300), either from China or the Korean peninsula. Rice cultivation was traditionally regarded as a religious act−an invoking of the inadama or spirit of the rice plant (see ta no kami). Supplications to the deity survive today in various forms of folk performing arts. Many festivals in honor of tutelary deities are also harvest festivals (see also agricultural rites). It is generally agreed that the Japanese extended family (ie) system evolved within the context of the rice culture, which required intensive farming, a sophisticated system of water control, and communal cooperation (see yui). In this sense rice may be said to have determined the very contours of Japanese society.

The common agricultural species is Oryza sativa. Like other plants of the family Gramineae, it has leaves with parallel venation; they sprout from the upper nodes of the stem, and the roots from the lower nodes. From the base of the main stem grow tillers (offshoots), and from these grow more tillers. Each tiller has leaves and roots, is virtually self-sustaining, and forms a panicle at its tip. Rice grows best in warm temperatures; the lowest temperature for germination is about 8>−10>C (46>−50>F), and the ideal temperature for growth is 26>−31>C (79>−88>F). High temperature and short days hasten heading. Since rice plants have a system for conducting oxygen from the air to the roots, they are resistant to severe oxygen shortage. They cannot withstand drought and flourish best in irrigated paddies. With proper fertilization and burning of stubble after harvest, there are no ill effects from repeated cultivation of the same field.

O. sativa is divided into three general types according to form, ecotype, and hereditary characteristics: indica, japonica, and javanica. Japonica-type rice contains less amylose and more amylopectin than other types of rice, giving it the greater glutinousness and special texture favored by the Japanese. Both mochi (glutinous rice), which becomes sticky when cooked, and the less starchy uruchi (regular rice) strains are found in all three types. Varieties classified according to area of cultivation are paddy or wet rice, suited for paddy fields; upland or dry rice, for dry fields; and floating rice, for flood-prone areas. In Japan, paddy rice accounts for 99.7 percent of the total production.

More than 100,000 varieties of rice are grown in more than 100 countries, with several thousand in Japan alone. In Japan, improvement of rice plants on an institutionalized and modern scientific basis was started in 1904 with hybridization experiments; pure line selection and, later, radiation breeding have also been utilized. These experiments have resulted in improved productivity, early maturity, and resistance to disease, cold weather, and lodging (stalk collapse). Koshihikari and Sasanishiki, both grown in the northeast, are among the most popular types of Japanese rice and command a high price. Since World War II, with land improvement, breeding of varieties responsive to fertilizers, improvement of fertilizing techniques, and the development of chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides, average yields have increased to more than 4.0 metric tons per hectare (1.8 short tons per acre). Since the beginning of the 1960s agricultural machinery has largely replaced human and animal labor, and threshing and hulling as well as transplanting of seedlings are now done by machines. At the same time, because of herbicides, there has been a reduction in the work load. In 1999 total production was 9,175,000 metric tons (10,092,500 short tons).

Typhoons pose the greatest hazard to rice plants in Japan, but in northern Japan considerable damage can be done if there is unseasonably cool weather during the inflorescence stage. Growing use of fertilizers has led to an increase in such diseases as rice blight (imochibyō), which causes the greatest damage of all crop diseases. Insects such as rice-stem borers, paddy borers, and plant hoppers cause considerable damage. Preventive measures have included the planting of insect-resistant varieties and, until recently, the application of various herbicides and insecticides. Because of restrictions on the use of environmentally unsafe chemicals, the employment of natural enemies has been encouraged.

Rice consumption has decreased dramatically in Japan, with per capita consumption falling from 114.9 kilograms (253.3 1b) in 1960 to 65.2 kilograms (143.8 lb) in 1998. This phenomenon may be explained by the increased consumption of bread and animal food products. Rice contains somewhat less protein than wheat, but the quality of the protein is superior. Although customarily boiled and eaten plain, rice can be processed in many ways. Cooked glutinous rice is pounded into a kind of dough called mochi, which is then prepared in various ways. It may also be thinly sliced and then dried, roasted, and flavored with soy sauce to be made into a variety of rice crackers called arare. Rice confections, such as dango, are made from rice flour, as are the type of rice crackers known as sembei. Rice is also brewed as rice wine (sake), rice vinegar, and cooking wine (mirin), and by adding kōji, a fermenting agent, is made into a sweet, fermented rice drink (amazake) or used as a pickling base.

Despite the decrease in rice consumption, rice is still considered a staple, and rice production and supply is a key element in agricultural policy. From 1942 to 1995 the pricing and distribution of rice was strictly controlled by the government under the Foodstuff Control Law. However, the Law for Stabilization of Supply and Demand and Prices of Staple Food, which went into effect in November 1995, reduced the government’s buying and selling of rice to two categories: rice stores for emergencies and imported rice. The Japanese rice market had, with the exception of the early postwar era, long been closed to rice imports when, under pressure from the United States and other countries, the government announced a partial opening in 1993. The 《minimum access》 percentage of the domestic market open to imported rice increased gradually from 4 percent in 1995 to 7.2 percent in 2000. In 2000, nearly 770,000 metric tons (847,000 short tons) of rice were imported. The chief issues being debated in the 1990s concerning Japanese rice policy include consumer demands for high-quality rice, the price differential between domestically produced and imported rice, and measures to deal with chronic overproduction. See also rice prices; trade friction; Uruguay Round.

Posted by Fomal Haut on 2008-07-18 02:28:42

Tagged: , green , a field of grain , みずほ‐の‐くに , 〔みづほ‐〕 , 瑞穂の国

The post rice field-7月のたんぼDSC_0241 appeared first on Good Info.

[satalite-00]

A Beautiful Day

Just when the three of them were at their wits’ end, Eggnog saw something far off in the distance. He knitted his brows tightly, as if he’d remembered something, but the memory was still foggy.

Turkey: Eggnog? What are you looking at?

Eggnog: Rice, what’s happening over there?

Rice and Turkey looked in the direction Eggnog was pointing. There was a wide open space, and a large number of people were scattered around it, sitting on table cloths that they had spread on the ground.

Rice: Aah! How could I, forget about, the fireworks display?!?

Turkey: Ah? Fireworks display?

Rice: That’s right! That place, is the westernmost part, of the festival grounds. The Divine Lord, wants to hold, a fireworks display there, so, a large area, was cleared!

Rice: The venerable Divine Lord sought out many, artisans, to prepare, the Light Kingdom’s most beautiful, fireworks!

Turkey: But what does the fireworks display have to do with the wine?

Rice: The jar of sacred wine, that the venerable Divine Lord prepared, as a lucky draw prize, requires a, very good storage environment. So, before the lucky draw, it will be put, in a wine cellar, behind the lucky draw stage. That place, should also have wine!

Turkey: Perhaps the festival shopkeepers sent the sacred wine there!

Eggnog: It was passed around, until in the end, it unexpectedly would up where it was meant to be.

Rice: It would be wonderful, if that’s really the case. Let’s, quickly go look!

As the trio ran towards the wine cellar, a familiar figure blocked their path. Champagne angrily caught the doll that was thrown at him.

Champagne: Hey! You guys! Don’t push your luck! I clearly gave this to you, how could you give it to those pipsqueaks!!!

Fondant Cake: You gave it to me, so I can do with it as I please. You have no right to interfere!

Turkey: ….

Eggnog: ….

Rice: M-Mr. Champagne?

Eggnog and Turkey stared, stupefied. In front of them, the every arrogant and conceited Champagne wore an expression they’d never seen before. Even Rice, who had only recently met Champagne for the first time, couldn’t help doubting her own eyes.

And Champagne was also startled when he noticed them. He hastily stood up straight and re-assumed his customary elegant demeanor.

Champagne: ...Er-hem. What are you guys doing here.

Turkey: We-we’re still searching… for the sacred wine....

Eggnog: ...Oh, I really had no idea you also had this side to you… Mis~ ter~ Cham~ pagne~

Champagne: Ahem… it’s important to relax once in a while..

At that moment, Eggnog noticed a pretty young woman in a blue skirt standing in front of the children. In her hands, the young woman was still holding the cute doll that Champagne had specifically picked out from among the shooting gallery’s prizes. He couldn’t stop himself from smiling slightly.

Eggnog: ….Champagne, who is this? Why don’t you introduce us?

Champagne: …..

As Champagne was debating how he should best introduce his opponent, Fondant Cake gracefully extended a hand towards Eggnog.

Fondant Cake: Hello, I’m Fondant Cake. The kingdom’s priestess.

Eggnog: You’re the venerable priestess? That doll…

Fondant Cake: Ah ? Champagne gave it to me.

Eggnog: Champagne gave it to you?

Fondant Cake: Mm-hm. He said he won it, but he didn’t want it, and he asked me to help him dispose of it. I thought it was really cute, so I gave it to these children instead. What’s wrong with that?

Eggnog: Oh no~

Turkey: Oh~~~ He didn’t want~~~

Champagne: You lot…

Fondant Cake: Hm? What’s wrong?

Turkey: Venerable priestess, let me explain, he actually…

Champagne: Turkey!!!

Roared at by Champagne, Turkey stuck out his tongue and quickly fled. Eggnog and a very flustered Rice politely said goodbye to the couple, and chased after Turkey.

Fondant Cake: Hm? Champagne? What did they want to say?

Champagne: Nothing!

Fondant Cake: (Why is he blushing? ...Could it be that he likes that girl who was just here? Ugh, with his attitude, how will he ever win over the person he likes?)

The trio had arrived at the side of the wine cellar. Rice hurriedly fished a key out of her pocket. However, when they opened the door to the wine cellar, in the doorway they once again saw a familiar silhouette.

Amazake: What are you doing back here!?!

Tanuki: Waahh! I didn’t expect them to show up again! They’ve been hindering me all day!!!

Aizen: Who is it?

Amazake moved aside, and Aizen tottered forward, already red-faced from drinking and somewhat confused. He pointed at the big pile of wine jars to his left, and belched.

Aizen: BURRRRP! Why, it’s you guys! Chasing us for so long, you’ve really been working hard.

Eggnog: That’s…

Aizen: Don’t say another word! It’s too late to beg for mercy! Hey, are you too scared to move?

Amazake: He’s starting up again…

Tanuki: (It’s over. Who’da guessed-he’s completely unreliable when he’s drunk! It’d be better if I took this opportunity to escape!)

Azien: Outta my way! Today, I-I, Aizen, I’ve been looking for them… for payback! Hahahahaha, look at their faces you guys, they’re scared to death…

Eggnog: ...Do we still want to fight him?

Turkey: If we fought him now, it wouldn’t feel like a real victory.

Rice: Aaahhh!!! That’s, the Divine Lord’s sacred wine! It’s okay, it hasn’t, been drunk yet, please, give it back to us!

Aizen: I… this is my treasure! BURRRRP! Not givin’ it to you! My treasure… gonna drink it while I watch the fireworks…

Turkey: ...I really don’t want to fight a drunkard.

Eggnog: But there’s no other way…

[Battle ends]

Aizen fell to the ground, his face beaten bloody. Even though he’d been laid out, he continued to reach for the wine as Rice carried it away.

Amazake: Why can’t you just stay put when you’re drunk?

Amazake propped Aizen up and helped him to walk. The trio moved out of their way, following them with their eyes as they left.

Eggnog: We’ve been running into lots of Fallen Angels all day today.

Rice: After all, it is a festival.

Turkey: In any case, it’s happened a lot. Rice, hurry and see if the Divine Lord’s sacred wine is all right!

Rice: Ah! It’s fine! Sigh- we finally found it, thank you!

Eggnog: You don’t have to thank us. We didn’t do anything.

Turkey: That’s right, we had lots of fun! And the food here is really good!

Rice: Ah! It’s almost time! Let’s, quickly, go return the wine! We can still, make it to, the fireworks display!

Turkey: Okay, okay!

The trio took the wine and returned it to the lucky draw area in the fireworks display center. The shopkeeper saw that the lost sacred wine had been recovered, and thanked the trio profusely.

Stall Owner: We’re really too grateful to you! None of us knew what to do until you guys helped us out! Rice’s Attendant must be really amazing, for recruiting such an amazing Food Soul to help us.

Rice: We caused you, a lot of trouble, today. Luckily, in the end, we found it!

Stall Owner: Oh, yeah! You guys ought to draw a ticket too!

Turkey: Oh? We can draw too?

Stall Owner: consider it a thank you for helping us get the prize back!

Turkey: Ugh, “come back soon”... as expected… Eggnog, how about you?

Eggnog: “Thanks for your support”. Rice, how about you?

Rice: “Great luck and great fortune”... this… shopkeeper, what does this mean?

Stall Owner: Ah! Congratulations!

Rice watched, not comprehending, as the shopkeeper suddenly broke into applause. He grabbed the bell next to his hand and started shaking it.

Stall Owner: Congratulations!!! Today’s grand prize winner has emerged!!! Rice!!! Congratulations!

Rice: Ah?!? ME? I won the, grand prize?!?

Stall Owner: That’s right! The jar of sacred wine that was bestowed by the Divine Lord belongs to you! Rice!

Eggnog: Rice, you’re really lucky!

Turkey: She sure is! Now you can give the sacred wine to your Attendant. That way, they can become immortal, just like the Divine Lord!

Rice: (Master Attendant… if, I let Master Attendant drink this, then we can, be together, forever… Huangshan Maofeng’s, prediction, really was accurate…)

Rice: (But, he said, things would be different, from what I hoped… what could that mean…)

Stall Owner: Ah? What do you mean, immortal?

Turkey: Ah? Isn’t this the sacred wine from the legends, that the Divine Lord drank to become immortal?

Stall Owner: Hahahahaha!!! Where did you hear that?!?

Turkey: Eh?!? It-it’s not?

Stall Owner: It’s not! This is the vitality wine that the Divine Lord gave to everyone. This jar of wine is the best jar out of all the vitality wine.

Stall Owner: It’s said that if you drink it, you’ll be blessed and won’t get sick for a full year! So, we all call it sacred wine.

Turkey: EHHHH---!!!! That’s what it is?!?

Eggnog: ..Uh...Rice…

Rice: That’s okay. I’m really happy, just to, receive it. Ah- look you guys, the fireworks!!!

The other people looked at where Rice was pointing. Clusters of gorgeous, dazzling fireworks rose up into the air, then burst open, forming the most exquisite patterns. Everyone’s faces shined a rainbow of colors, reflecting the colorful light of the fireworks.

Turkey and Eggnog stole a glance at Rice, who was engrossed in watching the fireworks. Seeing that her face really had no trace of disappointment, despite her dreams being dashed, they sighed in relief, and started to earnestly watch the fireworks as well.

Rice: (Huangshan Maofeng… this is what, he was saying…)

Rice: (But, even if, I can’t make, Master Attendant, immortal, I can still, stay by, Master Attendant’s side, forever. I can definitely make this wish, come true. Definitely!)

#joyouscelebration

[satalite-00]

Aroma Attracts “VIP”

Turkey: Are you suggesting that we search every single game booth one-by-one?

Eggnog: There are so many game booths, which ones are giving out wine as a prize?

Stall Owner: Eh? You guys are gonna search for the vitality wine? Well, the Divine Lord’s vitality wine is really good stuff, it’s natural that you’d like it.

Rice: Mm-hm, this is really important, to us, do you know, where else they might have some?

Stall Owner: Of course! Right now, the Big Eater Contest is about to start! The champion will receive a jar of Divine Lord’s vitality wine! If you guys want to enter, you’d better hurry.

Eggnog: You mean, the contest is about to start?!?

Turkey: Then, let’s hurry!

Rice: Turkey, why are you, so excited…

Turkey: No-no reason.

The trio anxiously hurried to the stage where the Big Eater contest was being held. A large number of contestants were already seated behind the table, which was completely covered by pile upon pile of aromatic steamed buns.

Turkey: Gurgle…

Eggnog: Hm? What was that sound?

Rice: Turkey, did you hear, something?

Turkey: N-no!

Eggnog: Hey… isn’t this the Gloriville game area? Why are they using steamed buns for the Big Eater Contest?

Rice: Steamed buns, are the Light Kingdom’s specialty, and people rarely get, a chance to come here. So when they do, they want to eat local food!

MC: Come one, come all! Don’t miss your chance! Our Big Eater Contest is about to start! Right now we have one spot remaining- who else wants to enter the contest!?!

Eggnog raised his arms to shove Turkey onto the stage, but ended up shoving empty air. Only then did he realize Turkey had already stepped forward.

Turkey: Me! I want to enter!

Eggnog: …???

Rice glanced wordlessly at the slightly surprised Eggnog.

Eggnog: It wasn’t me. He went up there on his own.

The two of them shifted their gaze to Turkey, who was already onstage, seated attentively. They weren’t sure why, but a hint of excitement was visible on his face.

Amidst the crowd’s cheers of approval, Rice’s expression was a bit lifeless.

Rice: ...Eggnog, what’s wrong, with Turkey?

Eggnog: I suppose he’s under a lot of stress today. (He’s suddenly interested in the steamed buns?)

Rice: Under a lot, of stress?

Eggnog: Yeah, aren’t humans the same? When they’re stressed, they like to eat more.

Rice: Is that it? But, is it really, safe for him, to overeat?

Eggnog: He’ll be fine. Uh, she should be fine, don’t worry. Wow… that girl is really something.

Pizza: Cheese! Keep going! You can do it!

Eggnog: Aren’t those two from before? Hey! What a coincidence! You guys are here too!

Pizza: Ah! It’s you! What a coincidence!

Eggnog: Do you guys also have a friend participating in the Big Eater Contest?

Pizza: Ah! Actually, it’s the person we came looking for! Cheese disappeared on us just now, and Cassata said we should begin our search with the areas that have food. So, we came here. But I didn’t expect her to really be here.

Eggnog: That’s- that’s great (...So you guys really did have a person who wandered off…)

Eggnog: Cheese you say? Is she the girl up on stage?

Pizza: That’s right, she’s the girl with her cheeks stuffed full of steamed buns.

As Pizza said this, he lifted the specially-picked goldfish.

Pizza: They’re like twins!

Cassata: Cheese can hear you.

Pizza: Ah-OUCH!

A steamed bun came flying from far away, smacking Pizza on the head.

Pizza turned his head and saw that Cheese was glaring at him as she ate her steamed buns.

Pizza: She really did hear…

Eggnog: That’s no way to treat a lady~

Cassata: You should be grateful she didn’t throw her fork at you.

Pizza: Obviously, what I meant to say was, she’s as cute as a goldfish when she eats.

Cassata: (No you didn’t.)

Pizza: Hehehe.

Cassata: Okay, stop talking. What about you guys? Are any of your friends competing?

Rice: Mm-hm, Turkey, is, competing.

Cassata: What an appetite… Turkey… does he really like steamed buns?

Rice: Eggnog said, Turkey, is like this, because, he’s stressed.

Pizza: That makes sense! Cheese is the same way! You have to give her something to eat, and she stops being angry.

Rice: Mm-hm! Master Attendant, always says, good food, brings everyone, happiness.

MC: All right, our champion has emerged!!! Let’s give our little buddy here a big hand, for being the first to finish!

Turkey: Hic- I’m not a-hic-

MC: Hahaha, it looks like our little buddy here is temporarily unable to make a statement! Well then! Let’s bring the prize out and give it to this event’s champion!

They waited a long time, but the staff member who was supposed to walk on stage and present Turkey with his prize never appeared.

MC: Eh? What’s happened? I’ll go take a look.

Everyone craned their necks in curiosity, trying to peep backstage. But only an instant later, they heard the MC’s shrill scream.

Turkey: What happened?!? Hic--

MC: A Fallen Angel!!!!

Eggnog: Quick! Let’s go check it out!

Amazake: Today’s wine has a nice bouquet.

Eggnog: That doesn’t look like the sacred wine.

Turkey: Geez, who cares about that! Get back the sacred wine, quick!

Amazake: Flames…! I really hate them.

Rice: Huh? Wait, please wait a moment!

Amazake: This is my own wine.

Rice: Turkey, this is, Amazake, he always, carries, his own, wine jar.

Turkey: This wine is really his?

Amazake: Hmph, ignorant wretch!

Turkey: What?!?!?

MC: Okay, here’s your prize, at last.

Eggnog: Okay, don’t make a fuss. Rice, see if this wine is a…?

Rice: ...No, it’s not.

Eggnog: Then let’s go quickly. We still have to go collect all of the other wine. Turkey, it looked like thanks to Amazake, you’re no longer hiccup ping. Just let him go.

Turkey: Oh, now that you mention it, it seems like I’m really not hiccuping any more!

Eggnog: Let’s hurry and set out. We still have a lot of places we haven’t searched!

#joyouscelebration