Red Bean Paste: A Delicious, No-Added-Sugar Filling

Red bean paste is a popular sweet filling used in a variety of Asian desserts, from sesame balls (jian dui) to mochi, rice cakes, and even sweet buns. Its smooth, velvety texture and subtly sweet flavor make it a versatile ingredient in both traditional and modern recipes.

This delightful paste originates from East Asia, where it is known as anko in Japan, hong dou sha in China, and pat in Korea. It is typically made using adzuki beans, a small red bean prized for its mild sweetness and rich nutritional profile.

While traditional recipes often include sugar, my version is a naturally sweetened alternative using dates. This no-added-sugar recipe provides a healthier option without compromising on flavor, perfect for anyone looking to reduce their refined sugar intake.

Ingredients

• 1 tin (400g) of red adzuki beans

• 400g dried pitted dates

• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the adzuki beans thoroughly to remove any excess brine.

2. Cook the Ingredients: Add the beans and dates to a pot of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until both the beans and dates are soft.

3. Blend to Perfection: Drain the cooked mixture and transfer it to a food processor. Add a pinch of salt and blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

4. Cool and Use: Allow the paste to cool completely before using it as a filling in your favorite desserts.

Why Make Your Own Red Bean Paste?

1. Naturally Sweetened: By using dates instead of sugar, this recipe retains a natural sweetness without refined sugars, making it a healthier alternative.

2. Nutrient-Rich: Adzuki beans are a great source of plant-based protein, fibre, and essential nutrients like iron and potassium. Dates add additional fibre and natural energy-boosting sugars.

3. Customizable Texture: Whether you prefer your paste smooth or with a bit of texture, you can adjust the blending to suit your taste.

How to Use Red Bean Paste

This versatile filling is perfect for:

• Sesame Balls: Fill glutinous rice dough with red bean paste before frying for a crispy, chewy treat.

• Mochi: Pair the paste with chewy rice cakes for a traditional Japanese dessert.

• Sweet Buns: Use it as a filling in steamed or baked buns.

• Rice Cakes (Tteok): Add to Korean rice cakes for a sweet twist.