Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup dried azuki beans
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Fine mesh strainer
- Blender or food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the azuki beans in cold water and soak them overnight in a large pot filled with enough water to cover the beans.
2. Drain the beans and add 1 1/2 cups of fresh water to the pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are soft.
3. Add the sugar and salt to the pot and stir until the sugar dissolves. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like in consistency. This should take about 1 hour.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use a blender or food processor to puree the mixture until it is smooth.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any remaining bean skins or lumps.
6. Transfer the jam to a clean jar or container and let it cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
- Cooking time: 2 hours
Temperature:
- Low heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of jam
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 80 per tablespoon
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use other types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, instead of azuki beans.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Variations:
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the jam for extra flavor.
- Mix the jam with cream cheese for a delicious spread.
Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when cooking the jam – it takes time to thicken and become the right consistency.
- You can freeze the jam for up to 3 months.
Storage instructions:
- Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- The jam can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon for spreading.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top of the jam.
Pairings:
- Serve the jam with toast, crackers, or scones.
Suggested side dishes:
- Pair the jam with a cup of tea or coffee.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thick, add a little water to thin it out.
- If the jam is too thin, continue to cook it over low heat until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store the jam in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
- Azuki bean jam, also known as anko, is a popular ingredient in Japanese desserts.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, nutty, and slightly earthy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the jam as a dessert topping or spread on toast for breakfast.
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Region: Japanese