Anko Sweet Red Bean Paste

Ingredients

• 2 cups of dried azuki beans
• 4 cups of water
• 1/2 cup of sugar

Directions

1. Put the azuki beans in a bowl and rinse them with cold water.
2. Put the beans in a pot and add the water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Once the mixture has come to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Strain the beans and set aside the cooking water.
5. Put the beans in a food processor or blender and add 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
6. Process the beans until they are a smooth paste.
7. Put the paste in a pot and add the sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce the heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Once the paste is thick and glossy, remove it from the heat and let it cool.

Interesting Facts

• Anko is a traditional Japanese sweet made from azuki beans.
• Anko is a popular topping for desserts such as mochi and ice cream.
• Azuki beans are high in protein and fiber and are a good source of vitamins and minerals.