Anpan is a traditional Japanese sweet roll filled with red bean paste, or “anko.” The roll itself is made from a soft and fluffy bread dough, which is then filled with the sweet bean paste before being baked. Anpan has a long history in Japan, dating back to the late 19th century, and it continues to be a beloved treat for many people in Japan today.
The creation of anpan can be traced back to a Japanese baker named Yasubei Kimura. He was inspired by the European-style breads that were becoming popular in Japan at the time and decided to combine the European bread-making technique with a traditional Japanese filling. This resulted in the creation of anpan, which quickly gained popularity and became a staple in Japanese bakeries.
Anpan is made by first preparing the bread dough, which is typically made with flour, yeast, sugar, and milk. The dough is then rolled out and filled with the sweet red bean paste. The roll is then shaped and left to rise before being baked in the oven. The end result is a soft, fluffy bread roll with a sweet and slightly chewy filling.
One of the most popular variations of anpan is “Melonpan.” This variation is made by adding a cookie dough layer on top of the bread dough, giving it a unique texture and appearance. The cookie dough is typically made with butter, sugar, and flour, and is rolled out and placed on top of the bread dough before the roll is filled with the red bean paste. This gives the roll a crispy, sweet crust and a soft, fluffy interior.
Another popular variation of anpan is “Custard Anpan.” This variation is made by filling the bread roll with a mixture of sweet red bean paste and custard cream. This gives the roll a creamy and rich filling that is a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Anpan can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and is often eaten with tea or coffee. It can be found in many bakeries and convenience stores in Japan, and can also be purchased online for those who are unable to find it locally.
One of the most famous places to get a taste of Anpan is ” Kimuraya,” a bakery that was founded by Yasubei Kimura, the inventor of Anpan. This bakery is still open and you can find a wide variety of Anpan and other sweets.
Anpan is also a popular gift in Japan, and can be found wrapped in beautiful packaging and sold in gift shops. It is a great option for those looking for a traditional and delicious Japanese treat to give as a gift.
In recent years, anpan has also been gaining popularity outside of Japan, as more and more people discover the unique and delicious combination of sweet red bean paste and fluffy bread. Many bakeries and cafes around the world now offer anpan on their menu, and it can also be found in some specialty stores.
Overall, anpan is a delicious and traditional sweet roll that is enjoyed by many people in Japan. Its combination of European bread-making technique and traditional Japanese filling make for a unique and tasty treat that is definitely worth trying. Whether you’re in Japan or abroad, be sure to try anpan and experience the flavors and textures that have made it a beloved treat for over a century.
To learn more about Anpan and other delicious Japanese foods then you can read all about them in my Japanese Floaty Food Guide here
Nathan Hillustration 