Introduction
Red bean paste is the heart and soul of many Japanese desserts, bringing a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that dessert lovers can’t resist. If you’ve ever tried anko (the Japanese name for red bean paste), you already know—it’s smooth, slightly grainy, and just sweet enough without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of treat that makes you feel nostalgic, even if you didn’t grow up eating it.
But let’s get real. Anko is one of those ingredients that doesn’t get enough love outside of Japan. People hear “bean” in a dessert and suddenly hesitate. But trust me—this is not the same as biting into a spoonful of refried beans! The natural sweetness of adzuki beans, combined with just the right amount of sugar, makes anko a dreamy filling for all kinds of Japanese sweets.
So, if you love anko (or if you’re about to fall in love with it), here’s your guide to five must-try Japanese desserts that celebrate anko in all its delicious forms!
What Is Red Bean Paste (Anko)?
Before we dive into desserts, let’s talk about red bean paste itself. Anko is made from adzuki beans, which are boiled, sweetened, and mashed into a smooth or chunky paste. There are two main types:
- Tsubuan – Chunky red bean paste, where you can still see and feel the beans.
- Koshian – Smooth red bean paste, with no bean skins for a silkier texture.
The taste? Think of a rich, slightly nutty sweetness that pairs beautifully with soft textures like mochi or crispy, flaky pastries. It’s a staple in Japanese desserts, and once you start using it, you’ll want to put it in everything!
Where to Buy Anko
If you’re craving anko but don’t have the time to make it from scratch, don’t worry—you can easily find it in various stores:
- Asian grocery stores – Look in the dessert or baking aisle.
- Online retailers – Amazon, specialty Japanese food websites, and even Etsy.
- Local supermarkets – Some larger grocery stores now stock anko in the international section.
Just check the ingredients to ensure you’re getting real, high-quality anko without unnecessary additives!
How to Make Red Bean Paste at Home
Want to try making homemade red bean paste? It’s easier than you think! Here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup adzuki beans
- 3 cups water
- ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Rinse the adzuki beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours (or overnight).
- Drain and add fresh water, then bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are soft.
- Drain again and mash the beans until smooth (or leave some chunks if you prefer tsubuan).
- Stir in sugar and salt, cooking for another 5-10 minutes until the paste thickens.
- Let cool and store in an airtight container!
Now that you have your freshly made anko, let’s talk desserts!
6 Delicious Japanese Desserts Made with Anko
If you love anko, you’ll adore these six traditional Japanese treats that showcase red bean paste in the most delicious ways!
Dorayaki
Dorayaki is featuring two fluffy, golden-brown pancakes filled with a generous layer of sweet red bean paste. It’s soft, slightly chewy, and incredibly satisfying. These treats are often enjoyed as a quick snack, and if you grew up watching Doraemon, you probably already know they’re the beloved robotic cat’s favorite food!
Dorayaki Recipe
Dorayaki Recipe (Japanese Pancakes)
Discover Dorayaki: a classic Japanese snack made with a smooth, chilled batter and filled with anko (sweet red bean paste). Perfect as a dessert or a sweet treat any time of day.
Taiyaki
This fish-shaped pastry is as fun to look at as it is to eat! Taiyaki is made from a pancake-like batter and traditionally filled with smooth or chunky red bean paste. The crispy edges and warm, sweet filling make it a street food favorite in Japan. Nowadays, you can also find taiyaki with custard, chocolate, or even ice cream fillings!
Manju
Manju are small, round steamed buns with a soft, chewy exterior and a sweet red bean filling. They come in many variations, with some made from wheat flour and others from glutinous rice. The most famous type is Momiji Manju, shaped like a maple leaf and popular in Hiroshima.
Daifuku Mochi
A must-try for mochi lovers! Daifuku mochi features a soft, chewy rice cake exterior wrapped around a smooth anko filling. The slight chewiness of the mochi combined with the sweet bean paste creates an irresistible texture. Variations include strawberry daifuku, where a whole fresh strawberry is tucked inside for a fruity surprise!
Mochi Recipe
Easy Homemade Japanese Mochi Recipe (Budget-Friendly)
| This homemade mochi recipe is easy, fun, and incredibly delicious. Learn how to make soft and chewy mochi with a creamy, fruity filling in just a few steps. |
Shiruko
Shiruko is a comforting, warm red bean soup made by simmering red bean paste with water and serving it with soft mochi. It’s especially popular during the winter months when you need something warm and satisfying. The combination of sweet, silky soup and gooey mochi makes it one of the best Japanese dessert!
Related article: What Is Shiruko? (Traditional Japanese Dessert)
Yokan
Yokan is a firm dessert made from red bean paste, agar, and sugar. It has a smooth, dense texture and is often served in slices. This traditional Japanese sweet is perfect with a cup of green tea and is commonly enjoyed in tea ceremonies.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s a sweet paste made from cooked azuki beans and sugar. It’s used in many traditional Japanese desserts.
Yes! All you need are azuki beans, sugar, and a bit of patience. It’s an easy way to control the sweetness and texture.
You can make dorayaki, taiyaki, mochi, manju, shiruko, and yokan—just to name a few!
Look for it in Asian grocery stores, online retailers, or Japanese supermarkets. It’s often available in cans or fresh packs.
