🍱 Kahou Dango

Kahou dango (rice dumpling) is a confectionery dish offered on December 24th (November 24th in Japan's lunisolar calendar) for a folk event called "Daishiko." In the past, when Buddhist teacher Kobo Daishi stayed at a farmhouse of the poor, he was served dango made by the family and found that there was straw inside rice dumplings. There is a tale that says Kobo Daishi was not upset at this whatsoever, and instead went on to preach about kindness and hospitality towards others. It's said that the poor farmers had an abundant harvest every year after this encounter. Kahou Dango, which came to be prepared in association with this tale, is made by sticking wood pieces from the Hagi plant that resembles "Kahou" (karmic retribution), and offering them to a Kamidana (Shinto altar) along with walking sticks and chopsticks made of Hagi. It was an enjoyable dish to children, because it's said that when you happen upon a dango that has a "Kahou" wood piece inside, "karmic retribution is bestowed upon you, which means good luck.” If this "Kahou" is offered to a Kamidana (Shinto altar), it is said to turn into money the next morning. Azuki beans were not only a food to eat on special days, but were also seen as convenient and nutritious food source during winter time.