With Mochi Mondays at Sen beginning this week, we took the opportunity to speak with the restaurant’s Office Manager—and new mom!—Jessica Miranda. She was kind enough to share her thoughts about getting kids to try new foods, why Japanese cuisine is so healthy, and her favorite item on Sen’s menu.
What is mochi?
Mochi is steamed rice that is pounded into a dough consistency. It is then filled with ice cream, sweetened red bean or even fresh fruits.
How do you encourage kids to try new foods?
We find when we introduce new foods to kids that they have something they already like in it. For example, if your kid loves avocado, have them try an avocado roll. If they really like egg, tomago sushi. We’ve had kids eat sushi rolls with ketchup because that’s how they eat other finger foods. Chicken tenders are a favorite – maybe they’d enjoy veggie tempura or even rock shrimp tempura. We also encourage the kids to be part of the dining experience by having Japanese soda, Ramune, available as well as chopsticks specially made for kids that make it easier for them to eat.
Why is Japanese cuisine such a great choice for a healthy diet?
Japanese cuisine consists of things like seaweed, fish, green tea, tofu, fruits and vegetables…all things that contribute to heart health and living longer. It’s also typically low in sugar and fats and most meals are lighter on the stomach.
Every meal in Japanese households is well balanced and it should have something from the sea (like fish or seaweed) and something from the mountains (like grains or vegetables). They also include a broth, usually miso soup, which has long been linked to health benefits.
What’s your favorite “fun fact” about sushi?
Sushi in Japan still a luxury, you cannot find sushi restaurants everywhere like most people think.
Sushi was traditionally eaten with hands and use to be treated like a street food—like tacos!
Sushi rice wasn’t originally meant to be eaten, but as a way to ferment the fish it surrounded.
What’s your favorite item on Sen’s menu?
Ramen noodles—we have something for every craving with our ramen. Pork, chicken or veggies…I could eat it every day! We even have available a gluten free noodle substitute for those who need it.
Every Monday in April, guests who mention “CMEE” or “Waffles and Mochi” will receive a complimentary vanilla, green tea, or strawberry mochi with their order (take-out or dine-in). 15% of proceeds from participating orders will be donated to the Museum’s COVID-19 Response Efforts!