Itako

Itako is a traditional Japanese confectionery made from sweet red bean paste (anko) wrapped in a thin layer of mochi, a type of rice cake. The mochi is typically made from glutinous rice flour and water, and it is often colored red to match the anko filling. Itako is a popular snack in Japan, often enjoyed as a dessert or a light meal. The name "itako" comes from the combination of the words "ita" (糸), meaning thread, and "tako" (鷹), meaning hawk, referring to the shape of the confectionery. Itako is often sold in small, individual portions, making it a convenient and portable snack. The texture of itako is soft and chewy, with a slightly sweet and slightly savory flavor. It is often enjoyed plain, but it can also be topped with powdered sugar or other toppings. Itako is a versatile confectionery that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.