Adzuki beans simmered until they collapse into velvet, sweetened gently, sometimes with a whisper of tangerine peel. A dessert that has ended a thousand Chinese dinners.
Red Bean Sweet Soup
The first dessert most Chinese children learn to make. Mine never came out as smooth as my mother's; I keep trying.
Why This Elixir Works
Adzuki (red) beans are sweet and neutral, traditionally used to support the Heart and drain dampness. Tangerine peel adds a pungent note that helps digestion.
Earth element · Sweet phase of the five-flavor cycle
Ingredients
- Adzuki beans 1 cup
- Water 8 cups
- Rock sugar 5 tbsp
- Dried tangerine peel 1 small piece (optional)
- Glutinous rice balls optional
Find these at Asian markets, Whole Foods, or through our Herb Grimoire. Some links are affiliate links — they cost you nothing and keep the kitchen running.
The Refining Process
- Step 1
Soak beans 4 hours or overnight.
- Step 2
Simmer beans and tangerine peel in water 60-75 minutes until beans collapse.
- Step 3
Whisk to break up remaining beans.
- Step 4
Sweeten with rock sugar; simmer 10 more minutes.
- Step 5
Serve warm with glutinous rice balls if using.
Alchemist's Note
Educational purposes only.
Red Bean Sweet Soup
Earth 土- Total time
- 90 min
- Prep
- 90 min
- Servings
- 4 servings
- Ingredients
- 5
- Steps
- 5
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