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Delicatezza giapponese di pane dolce: Anpan

Nato a Tokyo nel 1874, l'anpan ha guadagnato popolarità grazie alla sua armoniosa fusione di sapori tradizionali giapponesi e occidentali.

Dolce televisivo iconico del Giappone: Anpan, uno squisito spuntino tradizionale
Dolce televisivo iconico del Giappone: Anpan, uno squisito spuntino tradizionale

Delicatezza giapponese di pane dolce: Anpan

In the heart of Tokyo, nestled in the historic district of Ginza, there is a bakery that holds a significant place in Japanese history. This esteemed establishment, known as Kimuraya, was founded by Kimura Yasubei in 1874. Yasubei, a former samurai, is credited with the invention of anpan, a popular Japanese snack that has since become a staple in the country's culinary landscape.

Anpan is a delightful roll filled with sweet bean paste and topped with sesame seeds. Yasubei created this treat by combining the flavor of traditional manjū confectionary with bread, a testament to his innovative spirit. The name "anpan" is derived from the Japanese word for "bread," pan, and the word for "bean," azuki.

The invention of anpan occurred during the Meiji government, a time when Western influences were reshaping Japan. Despite this, the traditional essence of anpan remained intact, reflecting the country's ability to embrace change while preserving its cultural identity.

Anpan quickly gained popularity and was already a hit product before receiving imperial approval in 1875. On an April outing to view cherry blossoms, Kimuraya presented anpan to Emperor Meiji. The emperor's approval of the snack bread cemented its reputation and further solidified its place in Japanese culture.

Today, the legacy of Kimuraya and anpan continues to thrive. The character Anpanman, a beloved children's hero, has a head made of anpan, symbolising the snack's enduring appeal. Japan's bread culture, which includes a variety of soft, savory snack breads and gourmet loaves, continues to grow, with factors contributing to its growth yet to be fully explored by food writers.

Kimuraya, the bakery that started it all, remains a well-known establishment in Ginza, serving anpan and other delightful breads to this day. As the Japanese word for "bread" remains pan, the tradition of anpan lives on, a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic snack.

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