JCC E-Magazine February 2024

A parent and child making onigiri together.

Participants trying out rice from different prefectures.

Unique Flavours of Japanese Rice ~ A fun experience with different varieties of Japanese rice ~ was held at JCC on 27 January 2024. Co-organised with JETRO Singapore and supported by Alchemist Singapore, participants were treated to an unforgettable experience in appreciation of the unique flavours of Japanese rice.

An onigiri making workshop was held during the first half of the day for families with young children. The workshop was facilitated by Ms Yasuko Aoki from Alchemist Singapore and participating families spent the morning making onigiri with different fillings together. After the workshop, they were led to the main exhibition hall to try out different types of rice from different prefectures in Japan. It was a memorable experience for both the children and their parents.

Meanwhile, the second half of the day was catered to participants who were interested in learning about the different types of Japanese rice and how to enjoy them accordingly. Five-star Japanese rice meister, Mr Shinichi Katayama, gave a presentation and answered questions from curious participants. It was interesting how there was so much to know about rice – and Mr Katayama shared his knowledge generously.

After the presentation, participants joined the rice tasting session at the main exhibition hall. Here, they were able to try out 4 different types of rice from 4 different prefectures. There was also a survey to discover which type of rice was preferred – and the crowd’s favourite was the Sakihokore variety from Akita Prefecture, favoured for its sweet taste and chewy texture.

Participants were also invited to try out Hotate Takikomi Gohan (Scallop Mixed-Rice) and were treated to a live demonstration of an oven-baked scallop recipe which was specially created for the event. It was an unforgettable experience for the participants as they left the event with satisfied stomachs and a newfound appreciation for Japanese rice.

A parent and child making onigiri together.		Participants at the Japanese rice presentation.
Five-star Japanese rice meister, Mr Shinichi Katayama, giving his presentation.		Ms Yasuko Aoki leading the live demonstration.

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