This was submitted by Ariel Okamoto for Discover Nikkei’s Nima-kai 2020-2021 Oshogatsu Traditions photo activity.

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As it is for many families, ozoni is one of the highlights of our usual extended family get-together. Our soup has evolved through the years, sometimes including additional ingredients and leftover pieces from other oshogatsu dishes. This year, with all of our households separated during the COVID-19 pandemic, several of us tried our own versions. Here is my family’s iteration with kamaboko, konnyaku, shiitake , carrots, green onions, and a toasted mochi . Though pared down compared to our usual bowls, I think it reflects this year’s quieter-than-usual celebration, which nevertheless included an extended family Zoom call and bingo game.