While browsing at Costco, I saw THE GUARD KOWA INTESTINAL REGULATION TABLETS α³+. I'd heard of this Japanese digestive health product before, so it especially caught my attention when I saw it.
If you usually pay attention to digestive health, this type of product makes you want to learn more. After looking at the ingredients and directions on the package, I thought it would be worth considering for a list of everyday health products.
Jagarico Takoyaki Flavor by Calbee
Jagarico is the Japan classic potato snack and crunchy, nibbly favorite sold for over 25 years since its debut in 1995. While mostly known for its “Salad” and “Cheese” flavors, there’s a bonus Jagarico Takoyaki Flavor to try that’s exclusive to the Kansai region.
It retains Jagarico's crunchy texture, with the distinctive savory flavor of takoyaki and a sauce-like aroma. As you keep eating, it really reminds you of freshly made takoyaki from the streets of Osaka.
Dashi Chazuke En at Eki Marche Shin-Osaka
A long-loved dish in Japanese households, ochazuke gets a gourmet twist at this specialty restaurant. The "dashi" broth, a key component of their dishes, is made from a blend of kombu (kelp), iriko (dried sardines), and the rich, aromatic flavors of bonito, mackerel, and swordfish flakes, combined with a chicken broth and seasoned with salt and mirin. This rich and comforting flavor warms the soul. They use high-quality, low-starch Japanese rice to complement the flavorful dashi.
While traveling in Japan, I especially wanted a piping-hot bowl of dashi chazuke. This time, I visited a well-known Japanese ochazuke chain that offers all kinds of options, from fresh seafood to classic Japanese toppings, each with its own distinctive character.
Fragrant rice is paired with carefully prepared toppings, then topped with warm dashi broth. The broth is light, fresh, and slightly sweet, and the rice absorbs its aroma, making every bite go down smoothly. The ingredients are simple, yet you can taste the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine.
Compared with a lavish meal, a warm and refreshing bowl of ochazuke like this is especially nice after shopping. It's also an everyday Japanese dish that shouldn't be missed.
Marushige "Kokyu Chocolate Kitashinchi"
Produced and sold by Osaka-based "Okashi no Marushige," Kokyu Chocolate Kitashinchi is a regionally exclusive chocolate that has gained national popularity through frequent media features. With Marushige’s direct stores located primarily in the Osaka area, this chocolate has become a staple Osaka souvenir known as a "treat you can only get in Osaka."
I came across MARUSHIGE's “Kokyu Chocolate Kitashinchi” in Osaka. Even the name of this chocolate is distinctive, making it hard to resist buying some to try!
The chocolate has a delicate mouthfeel and a rich cocoa aroma, along with a smooth texture. It's sweet without being too rich, and it's easy to eat several pieces one after another.
