Shinnen Omedeto! is how the Japanese say Happy New Year on January 1st. So, my guests and I greeted the Year of the Dragon this New Year at the home of Miko Mosher with a wonderfully delicious traditional Osechi Ryori, the Japanese New Year’s meal whose tradition dates from the Heian Era (from 794 AD). This sumptuous gastronomic experience was the result of my being the lucky winning bidder of Miko’s generous auction item of a Japanese meal at the 2023 Amigos fiesta.
The Osechi Ryori was a unique and very special experience for all of us. The meal takes days to prepare and is made up of ten or so individual dishes, each with a unique flavor and each representing a special wish for the new year.
Among Miko’s mouth-watering delicacies were sweet black beans for good health, sweet potatoes and golden chestnuts for prosperity, carrots and daikon radish pickles for good fortune, salmon wrapped in kelp for joy and happiness, and shrimp for long life, and rolled egg omelet with fish paste for wisdom, and red and white fish cake. Hot ozoni soup with mochi always opens the meal; Miko’s was prepared in the Kanto style, characteristic of eastern Japan and Tokyo.
It was altogether an experience none of us will soon forget!
This is the second time I have enjoyed Miko’s wonderful cooking. Two years ago, as I was the lucky successful bidder, my guests and I enjoyed a sumptuous Japanese home-style meal, something not found in Japanese restaurants. Another experience not to be missed–Yum!
Miko has again generously donated a Japanese dining experience to the 2024 auction. If you enjoy Japanese food and want a truly special, unique, and delicious experience, get ready to bid!