Ingredients

Method

Rinse the azuki beans and place them in a pot with the water.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about an hour, until the beans are soft.

Add the sugar to the pot and stir until it's dissolved.

Continue to cook the beans until they've broken down and the mixture has thickened to a paste-like consistency.

Once cool, the paste can be used immediately or stored in the fridge for up to a week. Use as a filling or topping for mochi, dorayaki, taiyaki, and other Japanese desserts.