sweetened red bean paste recipe

sweetened red bean paste recipe

The Best sweetened red bean paste recipe

I’ve been making sweetened red bean paste for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. This traditional Asian dessert is a staple in many East Asian cultures, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make and tastes amazing. I love that it’s a great way to use up dried adzuki beans, which are packed with protein and fiber.

My kids adore helping me cook this recipe, and we always have a blast together in the kitchen. Whether we’re making it for a special occasion or just as a daily treat, sweetened red bean paste is always a hit. Plus, it’s super versatile – we like to serve it as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt, or use it as a filling for cakes and pastries.

The best part? It’s actually really good for you too – adzuki beans are low on the glycemic index and rich in antioxidants. I’ve tried lots of different recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to.

It’s simple, yet packed with flavor. And the best part? It makes the whole house smell amazing while it’s cooking!

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is – we like to add different spices and flavorings to give it our own unique twist. My kids love helping me stir the pot and watching the mixture transform from raw beans into this beautiful, velvety paste. I’ve even started experimenting with using different types of sugar to see how they affect the final product – brown sugar gives it a lovely caramel flavor, while honey adds a hint of floral sweetness.

But no matter what variation I try, the end result is always deliciously addictive.

Sweetened Red Bean Paste

Sweetened Red Bean Paste

4.7 from 1805 votes

A classic Asian ingredient made by simmering adzuki beans with sugar until thick and smooth. This versatile paste can be used as a filling for pastries, dumplings, or enjoyed on its own.

Prep Time8 hours (soaking)
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time9 hours 30 mins
Servings: 4 cupsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 200 kcal per 1/4 cup

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried adzuki beans
3 cups water for soaking
4 cups water for cooking
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the dried adzuki beans under cold water and remove any debris.
2Place the beans in a large bowl, cover with 3 cups of water, and let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight until they double in size.
3Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then transfer them to a medium saucepan.
4Add 4 cups of fresh water and bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour until the beans are tender and easily mashed.
5Drain the cooked beans, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
6Return the beans to the saucepan and mash them with a potato masher or blend with an immersion blender until smooth, adding a little reserved liquid if needed to achieve a thick paste consistency.
7Add the sugar and salt to the bean paste, then stir over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
8Remove from heat and let the paste cool completely before using or storing.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Colander
Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon
Potato masher or immersion blender
Fine-mesh sieve (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 200 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0.5g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 75mg🌾Total Carbs: 44g🥦Dietary Fiber: 7g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For a smoother paste, pass the cooked beans through a fine-mesh sieve before adding sugar. Store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Sweetened Red Bean Paste Works

This sweetened red bean paste recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting dinner guests or just need a delicious snack on hand.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy this recipe is as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt – it adds just the right amount of sweetness without feeling too indulgent.

And if you’re looking for ideas on how to serve this recipe at your next gathering, consider using it as a filling for cakes and pastries or serving it alongside your favorite fruits and cheeses.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweetened Red Bean Paste

Q: What type of sugar should I use?

For this recipe, I recommend using brown sugar – it gives the paste a lovely caramel flavor that complements the adzuki beans perfectly.

Q: Can I use other types of beans?

No, this recipe specifically calls for adzuki beans – they have a unique texture and flavor that won’t work well with other types of beans.

Q: How do I store leftover paste?

Store your leftover paste in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 6 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your ingredients carefully if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover paste?

To reheat leftover paste, simply place it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

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