Delicious and Comforting Oshiruko Recipe: A Traditional Japanese Sweet Red Bean Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of Azuki beans (red mung beans)
  • 5 cups of water
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 pieces of Mochi (Japanese rice cakes)

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the azuki beans under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Place the beans and water in a large pot. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the pot.
  4. When the beans have softened and started to break apart, add the sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir until all the sugar has dissolved.
  5. In a separate pan, grill or broil the mochi until they puff up and become crispy on the outside.
  6. To serve, place a piece of mochi in a bowl and ladle the hot azuki bean soup over it. Enjoy your Oshiruko while it's hot.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Needed to cook the azuki beans and simmer them for a long period of time.
  • Stirring spoon - Used to stir the beans while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Separate pan - Used to grill or broil the mochi until they become crispy on the outside.
  • Bowls - Used to serve the Oshiruko, with a piece of mochi in each bowl.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of beans such as black beans or white beans instead of azuki beans.
  • Add a tablespoon of matcha powder to the bean soup for a green tea flavor.
  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bean soup for a hint of sweetness.
  • Add cooked rice or small rice dumplings (shiratama) to the soup for added texture.
  • Serve the oshiruko with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Oshiruko recipe! Oshiruko is a traditional Japanese sweet soup, typically served in winter, featuring azuki (red mung) beans and mochi (Japanese rice cakes). The azuki beans are cooked down into a sweet, hearty soup, then poured over grilled mochi, creating a delightful contrast of textures between the soft, chewy mochi and the warm, sweet bean soup. This recipe is easy to follow and will guide you step by step to make this classic comfort food right at home. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned azuki beans instead of dried ones? It is recommended to use dried azuki beans for this recipe as they have a better texture and flavor. Canned beans may not hold their shape as well and can be overly mushy.
  2. Can I substitute white sugar with other sweeteners? While granulated sugar is traditionally used in Oshiruko, you can experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of the final dish.
  3. Can I make the soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make the azuki bean soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and proceed with grilling or broiling the mochi.
  4. Can I freeze the leftover soup? Yes, you can freeze the leftover azuki bean soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. Thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to consume.
  5. What if I don't have mochi? If you don't have mochi, you can substitute it with small cubes of toasted bread or even rice dumplings (shiratama dango).

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Oshiruko, also known as Zenzai, is a traditional Japanese dessert primarily consumed in the winter. Originating from the Heian period (794-1185), it was a luxury only the imperial court and nobles could afford due to the rarity of azuki beans. It was believed that this sweet red bean soup could ward off evil spirits and calamity. Nowadays, Oshiruko is enjoyed by all, often served with mochi, a type of Japanese rice cake. It's a comforting treat that warms you from the inside out, customary in Japan's chilly winter season.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.