A frankincense candy in Oman! Yes, it is unique and a true masterpiece and believed to be one of its kind in the world.
This extraordinary creation is now the pride of Purewells LLC, a small Omani company, and its visionary founder, Tomoko Kojima, a Japanese woman residing in Oman since 2008.
Tomoko’s dream was to create a delectable edible frankincense product that would preserve all of its remarkable qualities.
The result of her passion is the candy known as ‘O (wa),’ a name derived from the Japanese concept of ‘wa,’ meaning the spirit of harmony. Written as ‘O,’ it is pronounced as ‘wa,’ symbolising the harmony Tomoko aims to bring to life.
Purewells LLC, under Tomoko’s leadership since 2015, unites two distinct traditions to create a perfect union.
This luxurious candy is crafted using the finest Hojari Frankincense from Salalah and traditional Japanese candy-making techniques from Kyoto, Japan.
It incorporates pure Himalayan Crystal Pink Salt, celebrated for its abundant mineral content and lower sodium levels.
Traditionally, frankincense was chewed, but Tomoko noticed its bitterness and tendency to stick to teeth. Inspired by this, she conceived the idea of combining it with her salt candy treat.
Kyo Ame, a master confectioner, employing traditional Japanese expertise passed down for over three centuries, meticulously crafts the candies in Kyoto.
Kyo Ame, or Kyoto sweets, have a rich history, and Tomoko’s team has collaborated with Kyo Ame techniques to create a special recipe that ensures a harmonious blend of frankincense flavor without overpowering sweetness.
The result is a sophisticated and well-balanced flavour profile, offering sweetness, aromatic richness, and a subtle hint of saltiness.
Says Tomoko that “it provides a unique and memorable taste for those who appreciate its distinct flavours, with crushed frankincense incorporated into each candy, akin to enjoying whole frankincense resins in sweetness.”
Tomoko’s candy creations are named ‘O (wa) Pearl,’ ‘Pearl Plus,’ ‘Pearl of Fire,’ and ‘Rose Pearl’.
O (wa) Rose Pearl, the new flavor, is a very special candy that is infused with the petals of the finest pink roses grown on Al Jabal Al Akhdar from the Hajar mountain ranges.
Each is meticulously crafted with careful attention to factors like temperature and humidity during mixing while cutting and individual packing are automated using machines. Although production currently takes place in Japan, there are plans to establish a factory in Oman in the near future.
Looking ahead, Tomoko envisions introducing new Omani flavours to expand her brand’s reach, becoming a representative of Oman, particularly in the GCC region. She aspires for frankincense candy to become a cherished tradition, akin to Halwa, as part of Oman’s heritage over the coming decades.
Notably, the Omani Women’s Group handcrafts the beautiful gift boxes housing these exquisite candies, and the packaging is sourced from Dar al Herfya, promoting traditional Omani handicrafts and supporting over 300 local families.
Tomoko’s journey into frankincense candy making began when she was teaching yoga in Oman and sought an energy boost for her in between classes.
She discovered salt candies and decided to create her own, as they were not readily available in the market. Her path intertwined with young Omani women whose SMEs were selling pure Himalayan pink salt, sparking the idea of adding frankincense to create this exquisite treat.
Tomoko’s frankincense candy is more than just a confection; it is a harmonious fusion of cultures and traditions, a testament to the bonds between Oman and Japan, and a promising legacy for Oman’s heritage. Tomoko’s vision is clear: she hopes that one day; her creation will be as beloved and iconic as Oman’s halwa.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
