🍚 Tsutokko (Steamed rice ball)

“Tsutokko” is steamed glutinous rice wrapped in horse chestnut leaves (Tochi leaves), and tied with straw strings. That was originally a portable meal carried by samurai to the battlefield. During that time, samurai brought any packaged grains with them, steaming them before consumption. In the early Showa period, it was eaten as a lunch during farm work and served as a snack for children. It is also a festive dish for the May festival, when fresh green Tochi leaves are available.