I admit an almost fervent obsession with the culture, the history, and everything else that comprises the fascination that is Nippon. If my wife were the jealous type she might be concerned. Thankfully she shares my love. Recently a colleague was overseas in Japan for business. I had expressed to him that I was jealous and my longing to spend time there. Being the nice fellow that he is, he brought back a treat for me! Official Japanese Self Defense Force Russian Roulette Cookies! In order to fully appreciate the experience I felt I had to document and share.
I’ve asked a friend to translate but after eating the cookies I discovered just why they are called Russian roulette cookies. For the most part they are mildly sweet almost shortbread in consistency. Until you catch the bullet, as it were. I popped one onto my tongue while sharing with the boy and thought “I think this one has gone bad.” Then the burning began. It could have been wasabi or chili powder or some concoction of the two. All I know was that I had to stop the fire. Immediately. Of course hilarity ensued as I tried to drown my nerve endings in milk. Ha Ha Japan, you’re a real hoot. I suppose the bio hazard symbol should have been ample warning, but this coming from a culture that adorns their cellphones with lucky poo. Ah well, I still love you Japan. Actually it was pretty funny. Especially when my son told me that the one I slipped into his lunchbox turned out to be loaded. He even shared with his friends, what a good boy. I’ve taught him well.
