Chiikawa steamed buns and a 7-11 collaboration

 

Before the year truly ends, I thought of doing something a bit more fun. We all know that Japanese convenience stores take their food very seriously. And sometimes they collaborate with specialty brands and anime characters for certain merchandise. But from the Chiikawa series? Now that is something else. 

Now for some late night snacking

For those not in the know, Chiikawa, or Chiisakute Kawaii, in short for "something small and cute", is a Japanese manga comic series that follows the daily adventures of the protagonist Chiikawa, and its animal inspired sidekicks. As to what animal Chiikawa is, I have no idea. It looks like a mouse but this is a mystery. But what is not a mystery is that it is very popular. With various comic compilations and even a Netflix series, this little creature has captured the hearts and imaginations of kids and adults alike. And even some of my friends back in Malaysia like it, and it is due to them in mind, is where this post comes about. Recently 7-11 and Chiikawa has collaborated in making a series of steamed buns which has the likeness of the characters. Specifically, there are 3 flavours, the curry bun, the pizza bun, and sesame adzuki bun, representing Usagi, a rabbit, Hachiware, a cat, and the titular Chiikawa respectively. 

Ready with the goods

After a long night of drinking, and needed something to help pad the gullet, I got the Hachiware and Chiikawa buns first, standing at 158 and 148 yen respectively, and brought them home as it will make it an easier eating experience. And I have to say, they were pretty good. 7-11 steamed buns are one of my favourite buns in general and is better than its other competitors. Yes, better than Family Mart and Lawson. So I am not surprised that this would be something nice to chow down on. But despite the cute exterior, the whole thing was actually quite nice. 

Adorable!!!

The curry bun was not spicy, which is expected. But it had a deep and earthy flavour which I like. there were small chunks of meat which I think might be beef or pork. But the flavour was pretty good and melded very well with the bun's exterior. Imagine taking a fluffy part of a naan and dipping into some mild gravy. Now imagine that in bun form. And what you get was something surprisingly good. 

Ok, this was pretty good. 

The Chiikawa bun that was filled with sesame and adzuki paste was a bit more traditional. Specifically, it was filled with sweet black sesame and red bean paste which is what you can get in alot of dim sum shops. Still, this should not detract you from enjoying this treat. It was pretty satisfying and would be a good finisher for a breakfast in a tea house. With or without the cute anime drawing on the bun, this was good eating. 

Pizza filled rabbit? Now that is a first

Well being obsessed with completionism asI am, I ended up taking on the pizza bun with Usagi's face on it the next day. But this time, with no pre-drinking taking place. Standing at 158 yen as well, this was also pretty nice. Imagine a mozzarella in carrozza, but in a Chinese style steamed bun and you get the idea. The tomato base was not too sour or sweet and the melted cheese in the center was a good balancing factor. However, it was a bit of a dangerous endeavor as it was quite hot. So a good amount of caution is needed to ensure you do not get burnt in the end. Still, was a nice surprise. 

Thank you 7-11. Till next time!

I would have the say that the buns were pretty nice, even without the collaboration being a factor. But of course, me ended up writing about it means that it was a success? Well, that is for you to judge. But if you do like hot steamy treats, then you should probably give your nearest 7-11 a visit.And trust me, they are pretty good. Will I write more stuff like this in the future? Well I am not sure. Having said that,  if it is a fun food experience, I will take notice, whether it is from a combini steamer or otherwise.  And a happy near your too everyone!