World Flavors Cookbook

Zenzai (Red Bean Soup with Mochi)

A warm and sweet Japanese dessert soup made from azuki beans, served with toasted or boiled mochi (rice cakes).

Cuisine: Japan

Ingredients

• 1 can sweet azuki bean paste (tsubuan)
• 1/2 cup water
• Pinch of salt
• 2 pieces mochi

Instructions

1. In a pot, combine bean paste and water; bring to a simmer.
2. Add a tiny pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.
3. Toast the mochi until puffed and slightly browned.
4. Place hot soup in bowls and top with the warm mochi.