Traditionally, they require a lot of work but recently, I learned that you can make Japanese soufflé pancakes by simply hacking one reliable store-bought ingredient: boxed pancake mix.

GIFU--A locally produced “watery custard pudding” called Mizu Purin scooped championship honors at the first Japan Pudding Award contest held here Nov. 5-6. Made by Shiwakawago House of ...