GLASS NOODLES

These thin translucent noodles originally came from China about 1,000 years ago and were initially known as to-men (Chinese noodles), mamé-somen (bean noodles), or other names. This was true until harusame (meaning spring rain) became the common name during the 1930s. Unlike the original Chinese version made from mung beans, Japanese harusame use potato or yam starch, as mung beans do not grow well in Japan. When boiled, harusame absorb lots of water and swell to several times their original size. It is a low-calorie yet filling food, a fact appreciated by those on diets. The name harusame comes from its production process, where noodles come out of tiny holes in a molding machine and droop like drizzling spring rain. Although harusame originate in China, they are rooted in Japanese aesthetics.