Characteristics of “malt mizuame”, a traditional food in the Minamiaizu region of Fukushima Prefecture

Abstract

  “Malt mizuame (millet jelly)” is a traditional food that has long been produced in the Minamiaizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. In the present study, we investigated the characteristics of the method used in this region for making malt mizuame and the sweet components. Following are our findings:
  In the Minamiaizu region, the unique customs of ameyobi or ameyobare are associated with malt mizuame;these customs were thought to have developed due to the mild sweetness and functionality of mizuame.
  During the saccharification process in the making of malt mizuame,steps are taken to maximize the saccharifiability of malt to starch.We identify these processes as an important way to reduce the amount of time required for saccharification.