🍱 Ochirashi-ame (Ochirashi candy)

"Ochirashi-ame" is a confectionery made by kneading Ochirashi powder with Starch syrup. Ochirashi is a type of barley called Hadaka-mugi, also known as "Hattai," which is why "Ochirashi-ame" is sometimes called "Hattai-ame". In Kagawa Prefecture, barley has long been grown extensively as a back crop to rice because of its suitable climate and other growing conditions. Hadaka-mugi is used to make miso and barley tea, and approximately 40% of its yield is shipped out of the prefecture. Although the area planted is on the decline, the "Ichiban-boshi" variety produced in the prefecture is highly regarded in Japan for its soft grain quality and high whiteness when milled, and Kagawa Prefecture is working to ensure a stable supply and improve quality. Hadaka-mugi is rich in dietary fiber and is effective in regulating the intestinal environment and preventing lifestyle-related diseases. It is usually eaten as barley rice, but in Kagawa Prefecture, "Ochirashi Ame" has been made by households in early summer, when the barley harvest is about to begin. In addition, there is a legend that if you scoop Ochirashi with Shobu leaves, you won't get sick, so you may eat the powder as it is or dissolve it in hot water and drink it. In the days when sweet foods were scarce, it was also favored by children.