Red Bean Soup (Hong Dou Tang)
Serves 4
Ingredients
Method
Rinse the adzuki beans thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
Soak the beans in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften them.
Drain the beans and place them in a large pot.
Add 6 cups of fresh water to the pot along with the dried orange peel.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the beans become soft.
Add the rock sugar to the pot and stir until fully dissolved.
Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
If using, add the glutinous rice balls and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Season the soup with a pinch of salt, adjust according to your taste.
Serve the soup hot, ensuring the beans and rice balls are evenly distributed in each serving.