Uegaki Beika Co Matcha Uguisu Balls: Uguisu Balls are a classic Japanese snack of bite-sized rice and wheat balls whose appearance is meant to mimic plum blossom buds. To me, they looked more like the shiny round acorns the two sisters chase after while exploring their new home at the beginning of Totoro. In this case, a sticky sugary coating envelops each piece, making it possible for green tea powder to stick to its surface. Slightly soft yet crunchy, sweet and bitter, this snack blends opposites to mixed success; the matcha flavor is clear, but the overall impression veers too sweet. Purchased from Tokyo Fish Market in Berkeley. 2.5/5.0

tokyofishmarket matcha japanese uegakibeikaco uguisu balls 2.5