Greetings, dear friend,
Have you ever pondered what special dishes people savor in your country when they seek a sprinkle of fortune? Here in Japan, we relish a unique delicacy known as “Ehomaki.” This substantial sushi roll, roughly the girth of your wrist, is savored for ushering in good luck. “Ehomaki” blends ‘eho’ (the auspicious direction) and ‘maki’ (roll), celebrated during Setsubun, the festive prelude to spring in Japan.
February 3rd heralds the onset of spring according to our calendar, and it’s the day we indulge in Ehomaki. In a bid to share this cultural gem with you, I’ve sourced four Ehomaki from both a supermarket and a convenience store, allowing you to vicariously savor the experience. While I snagged three for 1,000 yen at the supermarket, their convenience store counterparts command a steeper price of 1,000 yen each. A word to the wise: convenience stores in Japan might offer convenience but at a higher cost. For a blend of deliciousness and value, local supermarkets are your best bet.
Should you find yourself in Nagoya for an extended period, feel free to reach out for my top supermarket picks, especially known for their scrumptious ready-to-eat side dishes.
For me, Ehomaki is more than just a roll of sushi; it’s a catalyst that uplifts my spirit. Growing up, my family wasn’t well-off, and indulging in something as luxurious as Ehomaki was a rare treat. So, when I eat Ehomaki on February 3rd, it brings back memories of my humble beginnings and inspires me to strive even harder.
The ritual of consuming Ehomaki is quite intriguing. It commences with identifying the year’s lucky direction—this year, it’s northeast. Facing this direction, the tradition is to eat the Ehomaki silently until finished. No speaking permitted until the last bite.
Seems a bit laborious, doesn’t it? Truthfully, while rooted in superstition, the essence of enjoying your Ehomaki is what truly counts in my book.
Let’s dive in. Take a generous bite – with tuna, salmon, cucumber, egg, among others, it’s a symphony of flavors where each component shines, melding into a singular sensation of joy.
Now, it’s your turn to imagine devouring an Ehomaki! Should you wish to experience the genuine article, why not visit Japan? Better yet, make a trip to Nagoya, and I’ll show you around!
Ehomaki comes in a variety of styles: traditional Japanese with seafood and Korean-inspired versions akin to Gimbap, spiced with meat and gochujang. Featured above is a Korean-style Ehomaki, offering a taste profile distinct from its seafood counterparts. Fret not if raw fish isn’t to your liking; there’s an Ehomaki for every palate.
The innovation doesn’t stop there; cake and Baumkuchen versions of Ehomaki are being concocted, ensuring February 3rd remains an endlessly delightful occasion year after year.
However, a cautionary note: Ehomaki disappears from shelves the very next day.
Curious why they’re absent post-February 3rd? Consuming seasonal lucky charms out of their designated time is seen as inauspicious in Japan. Regrettably, this results in substantial Ehomaki wastage, sparking a significant societal concern.
Which begs the question: What holds greater importance – adherence to luck-related traditions or ensuring food distribution to those in need? Your perspective, especially how such matters are approached in your country, would be greatly appreciated.
What are your thoughts on Japan’s Ehomaki tradition? I eagerly hope you’ll join me in Nagoya to relish this experience together someday!
Koki@SamuraiWanderer
