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Red Bean Paste

Red bean paste, also known as adzuki bean paste or anko, is a sweetened, smooth or textured paste primarily made of boiled red beans, sugar or honey, and water. Created in East Asian countries such as China, Japan, and Korea, this versatile, sweet, and earthy ingredient is commonly used as a filling in many traditional desserts, popularizing it among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Rich in protein and low in fat, red bean paste is a favored vegan and vegetarian dessert ingredient. It is commonly used in mochi, dorayaki, red bean buns, and mooncakes. Its popularity is also enjoyed in a variety of dishes such as sundaes, pancakes, and shaved ice desserts, offering an inviting alternative to traditional Western sweet treats.
#30
IN BEANS & LEGUMES
221
CAL / 100G
$0.07
AVG / OZ
red bean paste
88%
CARBS
1%
FAT
11%
PROTEIN
Red Bean Paste FAQ
Cooking with red bean paste can be a sweet adventure. Many first time users are surprised by its vibrant, sweet and mildly earthy flavor. It is primarily used in desserts and occasional savory Asian dishes. The biggest mistake people make is overusing the ingredient because it has a very prominent flavor. Moderation is key to achieving the perfect balance of taste. Another common pitfall is that people tend to think of it only as a dessert ingredient, but it can also make a wonderful addition to savory dishes. To get the most out of red bean paste, use it as an alternative to chocolate or other sweet fillings in your baking recipes. You can also make a quick and delicious dessert by simply spreading it on a piece of toast, topping it with fruits, and enjoying it as is. A lesser-known trick is that red bean paste can be used to make red bean soup - a comforting and nutritious dish. Just add some water and a pinch of salt to the paste, bring to a simmer and voilà! Your wholesome and tasty soup is ready. You can also make your own red bean paste at home. All you need is red beans, sugar, and a little bit of patience.
How do I know if my red bean paste is still good to use?
What is red bean paste?
Can you use red bean paste in cooking?
What does red bean paste taste like?
Can you make your own red bean paste at home?
Can red bean paste be used as a replacement for other sweet pastes?
Do I need to keep red bean paste refrigerated?
What recipes are best to try with red bean paste for the first time?
What’s the nutritional value of red bean paste?
Can it be used as a substitute for chocolate in recipes?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does red bean paste expire?
Unopened commercial red bean paste usually has a quite long shelf life and can be stored for up to 12 months at room temperature. Always check the best-by date on the package for more specific information. Once opened, it lasts about 7-10 days in the refrigerator. If you have homemade red bean paste, use it within a week while stored in the fridge. Furthermore, you can also freeze red bean paste for up to 6 months to make it last longer.
How do you tell if red bean paste is bad?
You can tell that red bean paste has gone bad if it starts to develop an off smell or if mold starts to form on the surface. If the paste begins to lose its consistency and becomes runny or if changes in color are noticeable, it is a clear sign that your red bean paste is no longer safe to eat. To avoid any food-related illnesses, discard the entire container if it shows any of these signs.
Tips for storing red bean paste to extend shelf life
• Always store opened red bean paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator to retain its freshness for as long as possible. • If you’re interested in long term storage, portion the paste into small amounts, wrap tightly in cling film and store them in the freezer. When you need to use it, defrost the required portion in the refrigerator overnight. • To maintain the quality of your red bean paste, avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing. • Keep in mind that red bean paste is best when used fresh and can easily pick up off-tastes, so avoid storing it with strong-smelling food items in the fridge.
EXPIRES WITHIN
19 - 29
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
15g
CARBS
0g
FAT
1g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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