Unpei mochi is a type of wagashi traditionally associated with weddings in Tsugaru, a rice-producing region of Aomori Prefecture. While unpei shaped like sea bream or shrimp is often reserved for these special occasions, the most common shape is the spiral memaki.

This is the Okashi no Hiroya Unbei Mochi Yomogi, which featured the typical memaki shape. It consisted of a thin, green layer flavoured with yomogi wrapped around an unflavoured white centre. The piece measured approximately 7 cm x 4 cm at its widest point and had a thickness of 0.8 cm.

The unpei mochi had a distinctive crunchy texture due to the coarseness of the sugar, which was unsurprising given that sugar outweighed the mochi rice flour in the ingredient list. The yomogi flavour was present only in the darker green stripes, providing a mild herbal note. However, the flavour was subtle, allowing the toasted richness of the mochi rice flour to dominate. The yomogi layer itself was unsweetened, offering a welcome contrast to the overall sweetness.

While the regional uniqueness of this mochi was appreciated, a more pronounced or generous yomogi flavour could have provided better balance and depth to counter the sweetness.

This Okashi no Hiroya Unbei Mochi Yomogi contained one serving. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Hirosaki, Japan in 2024.