Red Bean Soup with Sweet Rice Balls for Chinese New Year

 

Red Bean Soup with Sweet Rice Balls

This classic Chinese dessert is a popular treat during Chinese New Year. The sweet red bean soup is comforting and nourishing, while the chewy rice balls add a delightful texture.¹

Ingredients:

• For the Red Bean Soup:
• 1 cup dried red beans
• 6 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
• Pinch of salt
• For the Sweet Rice Balls:
• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Pinch of salt
• Water for boiling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Red Beans:
• Rinse the red beans and soak them in water for at least 6 hours, or overnight.
• Drain the beans and place them in a large pot with 6 cups of fresh water.
• Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
• Add sugar and salt to the pot and stir until the sugar dissolves. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
2. Make the Sweet Rice Balls:
• In a bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, water, sugar, and salt. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
• Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
• Bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the rice balls into the boiling water.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice balls float to the surface.
• Remove the rice balls with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent sticking.²
3. Combine and Serve:
• Ladle the warm red bean soup into bowls.
• Add a few cooked rice balls to each bowl.
• Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 200-250
• Protein: 5-10g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Fat: 1-2g

Tips:

• For a richer flavour, add a piece of ginger to the pot while simmering the red beans.
• You can add other fillings to the rice balls, such as black sesame paste, peanut butter, or red bean paste.
• If the red bean soup is too thick, add a little water to thin it out.
• Serve the soup hot or cold.
• This dish can be made ahead of time. Store the cooked red bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Red Bean Soup with Sweet Rice Balls!

This classic Chinese dessert is a perfect way to celebrate the sweetness of the new year. The warm, comforting soup and chewy rice balls are sure to bring good luck and prosperity.