We Blended Irish And Japanese Culture With Whisky And Wagashi. Here’s 4 Ways You Can Too
If you’re looking to read about one of the most unexpected culinary love stories of our times, then you’re in the right place!
Irish whisky and Japanese wagashi.
You heard us right.
This eclectic pairing of Irish tradition mixed with Japanese culinary artistry will leave you gob-smacked (in a good way).
Why The Two
Irish whisky is the smooth talker of the spirit world (the alcoholic kind, just to be clear). This triple-distilled charmer has been wooing us for centuries with its vanilla, honey, and subtle spiced notes.
Wagashi on the other hand are traditional Japanese confections, made from anko and mochi, that bring a touch of assured elegance to any occasion (you can take our word for it). If these sweets were a person, they’d be the one who shows up to a casual brunch in couture yet are instantly liked by everybody!
Here are some whisky and wagashi pairings that will be a hit at your next get-together:
Blended Irish Whisky with Dorayaki
Sip on 50 ml of a blended Irish whisky with its smooth, slightly fruity flavour dancing with the sweet, fluffy goodness of Dorayaki. This delightful wagashi consists of two small pancake-like patties filled with sweet red bean paste.
The whisky’s notes of fruit and spice perfectly complement and highlight the sweetness of the Dorayaki.
Irish Single Pot Still Whisky with Uiro
For an earthy twist, pair 50 ml of Irish single pot still whisky with Uiro, a steamed cake made from rice flour and sugar. This wagashi, with its firm yet slightly chewy texture, comes in various flavours like matcha and red bean. The whisky’s creamy, slightly spicy notes elevate the earthy sweetness of the Uiro, making for a truly unique and satisfying pairing.
Irish Single Grain Whisky with Hanabira Mochi
Pairing 50 ml of Irish single grain whisky, known for its light, smooth character, with the chewy texture and subtle sweetness of hanabira mochi is a revelation.
Hanabira mochi, traditionally enjoyed during the Japanese New Year, is a rice cake with a sweet bean paste and a slice of candied gobo (burdock root).
The whisky’s gentle flavour complements the mochi’s delicate sweetness in ways nothing else can.
Host With The Most
For your next gathering, how about taking this pairing experience to the next level?
Create a tasting set for when you are hosting next. Lay out a selection of wagashi and pour different types of Irish whisky for your guests to enjoy. Not only will they enjoy a range of flavours, but they’ll also have a blast discovering which combinations they love the most.
It’s a fun, interactive way to appreciate the artistry of both traditions.
