This is the Kyo Tsukimachian Black Soybean. We’d previously enjoyed their peanut and green pea versions (undocumented) and black soybean was a new addition to the store’s classic mamesenbei.

Each cracker measured approximately 9 x 4 x 0.5 cm in dimensions, exuding a delightful sweet and nutty aroma reminiscent of black soybeans. Upon tasting, the cracker unveiled a resounding crunch with a remarkable interplay of textures, spanning from the golden biscuit’s lighter crunch to the distinct and audibly firm crunch of the black soybeans, which offered a density that set them apart from their peanut and green pea counterparts. Despite the subtle sweetness infused by the black beans, akin to the experience of black soybean tea, the cracker predominantly maintained its inherent savoury profile. Our enjoyment stemmed from the satisfying crunch of these crackers, although our preference leaned towards the more pronounced umami-rich flavours found in ebi senbei.

This Kyo Tsukimachian Black Soybean contained 10 pieces. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Kyōto, Japan in 2023.