Ume daifuku

This daifuku variety is made with chewy mochi shell that is wrapped around ume—Japanese fruit that is often called a plum, but which is more related to apricots. The plums are first coated with anko (red bean paste), and the whole combination is then wrapped in mochi. Because ume plums are slightly tart, they provide a good balance with the sweetness of mochi cakes and the red bean paste. Ume daifuku is regarded as a seasonal treat that is mostly enjoyed in late winter or early spring.