Hello from the UK!
While I'm staying here, I brought this with me: Shiratamako (白玉粉, glutinous rice flour）.
What is Shiratamako?
Shiratamako or shiratama flour is made from mochigome(餅米), glutinous short-grain rice or sticky rice in English. It’s an essential ingredient used in many traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi), known for its smooth, chewy texture when cooked.
Learn more about shiratamako and how to use it → What is Shiratama Flour and How is it Used?
The most well-known dessert made with this shiratama flour is shiratama dango -small, chewy mochi balls (see photo below).
Shiratama Dango Meets Eaton Mess
This time, I wanted to try combining it with something very British — and I chose Eton Mess, a summer desert in the UK.
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Make Shiratama Dango
Ingredients (Serves 2)
Shiratamako (glutinous rice flour) 50g/ 1.75oz
Water 40–50g/ 1.4-1.7 oz (add gradually until the texture is right)
Instructions
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In a bowl, gradually add water to the Shiratamako and mix by hand.Knead until a soft, smooth dough forms. The texture should be pliable but not sticky.
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Pinch off small pieces and roll them into balls (about 2 cm wide). Gently press the center of each ball with your finger to flatten slightly — this helps them cook evenly.
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Drop the balls into boiling water. Once they float to the top, cook for another 1–2 minutes.
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Remove and place in ice water to cool, then take them out and drain.
That's it! The whole process takes less than 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make Eton Mess with Shiratama Dango
Eton Mess is a classic British summer dessert made by mixing berries, crushed meringue, and whipped cream.
Here‘s what I used -(all easily available in the UK supermarkets)
- Fresh strawberries
- Meringue nests
- Whipped cream
Assemble the Dessert
In a serving bowl or glass, simply layer:
- Shiratama dango
- Fresh berries
- Crushed meringue
- Whipped cream
Optional: Add chopped nuts on top for a nice crunch!
A simple, elegant dessert that blends Japanese texture with British flavors - light,refreshing, and unique.
It pairs beautifully with black tea, coffee and also Japanese sencha green tea!
Happy dessert-making and enjoy your summer.
Today’s Recommendations
Article and Recipes for Shiratamako
What is Shiratama Flour and How is it Used?
Pumpkin Shiratama Dango (Mochi balls) Recipe
Sakura Daifuku Mochi (さくら大福) Recipe
