Minazuki (水無月) is another for June in Japanese, and it is also one of wagashi (Japanese sweets) enjoyed in June. Every year, when June comes, I crave this wagashi. Unfortunately, it is usually not sold outside of Japan, so my only option is to make it myself. However, it takes a couple of days to make, so I always hesitate to make it every year. But my desire to eat it always wins out, so I made Minazuki again this year and brought it to my Chanoyu class last Tuesday.
Minazuki wrapped in Furoshiki with hydrangea
Minazuki is a simple wagashi consisting of a soft base made from rice flour, topped with sweet-simmered azuki beans. It is mainly eaten in the Kyoto area. The triangular shape of Minazuki symbolizes ice that can withstand the heat, and the red color of the azuki beans is meant to ward off evil spirits.
On June 30, shrines around Japan hold a Shinto purification ritual called Nagoshi no Harae to cleanse the sins and impurities accumulated over the six months from January to June. While eating Minazuki, people pray for good health for the rest of the year.
Minazuki -one of Japanese sweets in June
I don’t remember when I started eating Minazuki, but I always crave this traditional sweet every year. The combination of the Uiro (a soft cake made from rice flour) and azuki beans is successful, and this wagashi is so delicious. Besides its taste, I also appreciate savoring the tradition and its long history.
It is said that Minazuki was originally made in the Heian period (794-1185) by imperial court members who drank ice stored in icehouses in Nishigamo, Kyoto, to beat the heat. At that time, ice was a luxury item, and common people rarely had the chance to enjoy it. This is said to be why people started eating Minazuki, which is shaped like ice.
Our lives have become so convenient, and many things are easily available to us. However, I sometimes think that truly enjoying life means following and savoring every process. The time spent after dinner over a couple of days cooking azuki beans was really enjoyable when viewed in this way.
People are more appreciative of things that have been made with care and time. Time spent enjoying things with family and friends like this is more wonderful than anything else. I wish you good health for the rest of the year.
Hydrangeas in my garden