Anko (Sweet Red Bean Paste)

下ごしらえ

材料

作り方

手順

1. 1

   Rinse the azuki beans thoroughly under cold running water.

   約1 分

2. 2

   Place the rinsed azuki beans in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them by several inches. Bring to a boil over high heat.

   約10 分

   調理のヒント： Using a larger pot than you think you need will prevent boil-overs.

3. 3

   Once boiling, cook for 5 minutes, then drain the water and discard it. This helps remove bitterness.

   約5 分

4. 4

   Return the azuki beans to the pot and add fresh cold water, covering them by at least 3 inches. Bring to a boil again, then reduce the heat to low.

   約5 分

5. 5

   Simmer the azuki beans gently, uncovered, for 60-90 minutes, or until they are very soft and can be easily crushed between your fingers. Add more hot water if needed to keep them submerged.

   約1 時間 15 分

   調理のヒント： The cooking time can vary significantly depending on the age and type of beans.

6. 6

   Once the azuki beans are tender, drain most of the cooking liquid, leaving just enough to barely cover the beans.

   約2 分

   調理のヒント： You can reserve a small amount of the liquid to adjust the consistency later if needed.

7. 7

   Add the sugar and the salt to the pot with the azuki beans. Stir gently to combine.

   約1 分

8. 8

   Continue to simmer over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for about 10-15 minutes. The sugar will dissolve and the mixture will thicken.

   約12 分

   調理のヒント： Stirring prevents the bottom from scorching and helps achieve a smooth consistency.

9. 9

   Mash the azuki beans to your desired consistency using the back of your spoon or a potato masher. For a smoother paste, use an immersion blender or process in a food processor.

   約3 分

   調理のヒント： For 'tsubuan' (chunky anko), leave some beans whole; for 'koshian' (smooth anko), mash completely.

10. 10

    Remove from heat and let the anko cool completely. It will thicken further as it cools.

    約6 時間

    調理のヒント： Cooling slowly helps the flavors meld and the texture set properly.