Kusamochi

Dessert

Item Rating: 68/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 223 calories, 4.0 grams of protein, 0.5 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		531.0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		1.2 g	1%
	Saturated Fat	0.2 g	1%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		11.9 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrates		119.0 g	43%
	Dietary Fiber	4.8 g	17%
	Sugars	47.6 g
protein		9.5 g	19%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		23.8 mg	1%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		119.0 mg	2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🧂 Low sodium

🧂 Low salt

Source of Calories

Fat: 10 cal (2.1%)

Protein: 38 cal (7.2%)

Carbs: 476 cal (90.7%)

About Kusamochi

Kusamochi, also known as yomogi mochi, is a traditional Japanese sweet made with glutinous rice flour and mugwort (yomogi) leaves. The green color comes from mugwort, a herb native to Asia, Europe, and North America. It is typically stuffed with sweet red bean paste (anko) or enjoyed plain. With a chewy texture and earthy flavor, kusamochi is commonly enjoyed during spring festivals like Hinamatsuri (Doll’s Day). Nutritionally, kusamochi provides approximately 223 calories per serving, primarily from carbohydrates, with modest amounts of protein and fiber, and minimal fat content. Although low in vitamins, the inclusion of mugwort offers small amounts of calcium and iron.

Health Benefits

• Provides quick energy thanks to its high carbohydrate content (50g per serving), making it a good choice for physical activity recovery.
• Contains dietary fiber (2g per serving), which may aid in digestive health and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Offers trace minerals like calcium (10mg) and iron (1mg), which support bone health and oxygen transport in the blood.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains glutinous rice

Suitable for: Vegetarian, low-fat

Not suitable for: Gluten-free, low-carb, diabetes

Selection and Storage

Store kusamochi at room temperature for up to 1-2 days or refrigerate in an airtight container to extend freshness. Enjoy at room temperature or warm briefly for a softer texture.

Common Questions About Kusamochi Nutrition

How many calories and how much protein does kusamochi have?

One serving of kusamochi (typically about 100 grams) contains 223 calories and 4 grams of protein. It is a carbohydrate-heavy snack with 50 grams of carbs, including 20 grams of sugar and 2 grams of dietary fiber.

Can I eat kusamochi on a keto or low-carb diet?

Kusamochi is not suitable for keto or low-carb diets due to its high carbohydrate content of 50 grams per serving. This makes it unsuitable for individuals aiming to keep their daily carb intake below 20-50 grams, as required in these diets.

What are the health benefits and concerns of eating kusamochi?

Kusamochi provides a quick source of energy thanks to its carbohydrate content, and it also contains a small amount of fiber (2 grams). However, it is relatively high in sugar (20 grams per serving), which could be a concern for those managing blood sugar or watching their sugar intake. It's low in fat and sodium, making it a lighter treat in those respects.

What is the recommended portion size for kusamochi?

A single serving of kusamochi is typically around 100 grams, which provides 223 calories. Due to its high sugar and carbohydrate content, it’s best to consume kusamochi in moderation, especially if you are monitoring calorie or sugar intake.

How does kusamochi compare to other mochi varieties?

Compared to plain mochi, kusamochi contains an herbal addition—typically mugwort—which gives it a green color and distinct flavor. Nutritionally, kusamochi is very similar to other mochi varieties, as it is primarily made from glutinous rice. Its mix-ins, like mugwort, may slightly increase its fiber content compared to plain mochi.

Data Sources & Scientific References