Mizu Yokan, a refreshing and subtly sweet Japanese dessert, is surprisingly simple to make at home. Unlike its denser counterpart, this version boasts a delicate, jelly-like texture achieved with minimal ingredients and effort. The smooth, almost ethereal consistency melts in your mouth, offering a delightful contrast to its slightly sweet red bean flavor. This makes it a perfect treat for a hot summer's day or a sophisticated addition to any dessert spread. Its elegant simplicity belies a depth of flavor that will surprise and delight even the most seasoned dessert enthusiast.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy processes. This easy Mizu Yokan recipe uses just four readily available ingredients and a clever Tupperware technique for a perfectly smooth result every time. Ready to dive into the simple steps that will transform these few ingredients into a delicious and elegant Japanese treat? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Pot or frying pan
- Tupperware container (90mm or 110ml)
- Tray
- Plastic wrap
- Thin knife
Ingredients
- Adzuki beans (anko)
- Water
- Flour
- Salt
- Sugar: Optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Anko and Base Mixture
- Prepare adzuki beans (anko). You can use it whole or crushed.
- Add sugar for extra sweetness.
- In a pot, mix adzuki beans, water, flour, and salt until well blended. Avoid lumps.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it boils. Then, reduce heat to low and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add adzuki beans gradually to the hot mixture, stirring well to incorporate them. Do this quickly as it will solidify at higher temperatures.
- Add salt, heat again, and stir until just before boiling (about 1 minute). Remove from heat.
Step 2. Cool and Pour into Containers
- Prepare a tray with cold water (not ice water).
- Pour the mixture into the cold water and let it cool for 3 minutes to prevent layering during setting.
- Stir the cooled mixture gently without creating bubbles.
- Quickly pour the mixture into Tupperware containers.
Step 3. Chill and Serve
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours.
- After chilling, remove the plastic wrap. Use a thin knife to loosen the edges before serving.
Read more: Authentic Japanese Beef Sukiyaki Recipe - Easy & Delicious Hot Pot
Tips
- Thoroughly heat the mixture to ensure the adzuki beans melt properly.
- Add the adzuki beans gradually to prevent lumps.
- Use cold water, not ice water, to cool the mixture to prevent rapid hardening and layering.
- Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring it to containers to prevent separation.
- Work quickly when transferring the mixture to the containers.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of agar-agar?
Yes, you can use powdered or strip agar-agar. Adjust the amount slightly based on the package instructions, as the setting power may vary.
2. What if my Mizu Yokan is too soft or too hard?
Too soft? You may need to increase the amount of agar-agar. Too hard? Reduce the agar-agar or increase the amount of water.
3. Can I make this recipe without a microwave?
Yes! You can heat the mixture on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly until the agar-agar is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear.
And there you have it – a perfectly smooth and refreshing Mizu Yokan, crafted with ease using just four simple ingredients. This easy recipe proves that elegant desserts don't require hours of work or a complicated ingredient list. Now go ahead and enjoy your homemade Japanese treat!