Nerikoh is made using powdered aromatic ingredients. These ingredients are kneaded with honey or plum vinegar.
It takes a bit of effort to knead the mixture, but try enjoying the difference in fragrance between freshly made Nerikoh and one that has been aged for a while.
Materials and Tools Needed
How to Make Nerikoh (Kneaded Incense)
Add the ingredients and check their scent
Start by adding agarwood (jinkoh).
Since it only releases its fragrance when heated, it won’t smell strong at this stage—but try to get a sense of the aroma before placing it in the container.
Each time you add a new ingredient, be sure to smell it individually to get familiar with its scent.
Check the blended aroma as you go
Every time you add an ingredient, also smell the blend to notice how the aroma changes.
You’ll be able to sense the transformation of the scent.
Add charcoal powder last
Add the charcoal powder at the end and mix it thoroughly.
The color will change significantly.
Add honey
Once the charcoal is well mixed in, gradually add honey while kneading with pressure.
Knead thoroughly
Start by mixing with a pestle (or spoon).
Once the mixture starts to hold together and becomes elastic, knead it with your hands.
The more thoroughly you knead it, the more evenly the honey spreads throughout the mixture, enhancing the fragrance.
Shape the mixture
When the dough reaches about the firmness of an earlobe, shape it into balls approximately 7 mm in diameter.Place it on your palm and gently roll it with your fingertips to form the shape.
Finished
You now have beautifully glossy Nerikoh incense.
Method of preservation Nerikoh
- Store leftover Nerikoh in an airtight container like a Tupperware box to keep it fresh. Freezing also helps prevent mold.
- If mold does develop, you can simply scrape off the affected area and still use the rest. After that, store it in a cool, dark place.
- You can also keep the Nerikoh as one large lump and tear off the amount you need whenever you use it. This is also recommended.
