Sonodaya Chosen Ame
Chosen ame is Sonodaya's soft Kumamoto confection made from glutinous rice, starch syrup and sugar. Powdered, milky-white rectangular pieces bend and chew more like gyuhi than hard candy...
At a glance
| Name | Sonodaya Chosen Ame (Chosen Ame) |
|---|---|
| Prefecture | Kumamoto |
| Region | Kyushu & Okinawa |
| Type | Soft rice-and-syrup confection |
What is it?
Chosen ame is Sonodaya's soft Kumamoto confection made from glutinous rice, starch syrup and sugar. Powdered, milky-white rectangular pieces bend and chew more like gyuhi than hard candy.
Despite its name, it is a Kumamoto sweet, not a confection imported from Korea. Sonodaya tradition links the present name to Kato Kiyomasa carrying the former Chosei ame during the Korean campaigns.
History and local context
Sonodaya states that it was founded in 1582 and has preserved the confection for more than four centuries. Its Chosen Ame consists of powder-coated, milky-white rectangular pieces.
The naming story has several versions. The link to Kato Kiyomasa is Sonodaya’s tradition; the precise date of the name change is uncertain.
How to enjoy it
Unwrap a piece over a plate, keep some surface powder and take small bites with green or roasted tea.
Because the texture is sticky and mochi-like, cut it for young children or older diners and follow the package for storage and shelf life.
Sources and further reading
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