Kasutera

Description

Kasutera is a traditional sponge cake made with sugar, flour, eggs, and starchy syrup. This Nagasaki specialty is raised solely by egg foam, with no added butter or oil, and has a soft, moist, and spongy texture. The cake is also known as Castella , and was brought to Japan in the 16th century by Portuguese merchants. Its name is derived from pao de Castela , meaning bread from Castille . Today, it is common to find Nagasaki kasutera in many variations, with flavors such as chocolate, green matcha tea, brown sugar, or honey. It is a popular gift and a nice souvenir to give to friends or relatives. Kasutera is so adapted to the Japanese cuisine that there is even a baby kasutera , a small-sized version of the cake that is traditionally prepared for numerous Japanese festivals.