Ichigo Daifuku – Strawberry Mochi Recipe

🍓🍡

Overview:

Ichigo daifuku are delightful Japanese treats that combine the freshness of strawberries with the sweetness of anko (sweet red bean paste), all wrapped in a soft and chewy mochi shell. They are a popular choice for dessert or as a snack, cherished for their unique blend of flavors and textures.

Cook Time: 5 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 Mochi

Ingredients:

Quantity	Ingredient
1 1/2 cups	Sugar
1/2 cup	Water
1 1/2 cups	Mochiko (Sweet Rice Flour)
12	Strawberries
1	Can of Anko (Sweet Red Bean Paste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mochi Dough:

In a large saucepan, mix together the sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually add the mochiko (sweet rice flour) while stirring constantly to prevent clumps from forming.
Once the mixture is smooth, return the saucepan to the burner over low heat. Cook the dough for an additional 2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
After 2 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mochi dough cool for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from hardening.

2. Shape and Fill the Mochi:

Once the mochi dough has cooled slightly, lightly dust your hands and a clean work surface with additional mochiko to prevent sticking.
Take small portions of the mochi dough and roll them into walnut-sized balls. Then, flatten each ball into a small disc using your fingers.
Spread a thin layer of anko (sweet red bean paste) onto each flattened mochi disc, leaving the edges clear.
Wash and dry the strawberries, then remove the stems and hulls. Place a strawberry in the center of each mochi disc, on top of the anko.
Carefully gather the edges of the mochi disc around the strawberry, pinching them together to seal the filling inside. Use a bit of mochiko on your hands and the mochi pieces to prevent sticking.

3. Serve and Enjoy:

Once all the ichigo daifuku are assembled, they are ready to be served! Arrange them on a serving plate and enjoy these delightful treats with friends and family.
Store any leftover ichigo daifuku in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 106.8
Fat: 0.3g
Saturated Fat: 0.1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0.7mg
Carbohydrates: 24.7g
Fiber: 0.6g
Sugar: 8.7g
Protein: 1.2g

Notes:

Mochiko (Sweet Rice Flour): Make sure to use mochiko specifically for making mochi, as regular rice flour will yield a different texture.
Anko (Sweet Red Bean Paste): You can find canned anko at most Asian grocery stores, or you can make your own at home if you prefer.
Handling Mochi: Mochi can be sticky, so be sure to dust your hands and work surface with mochiko as needed to prevent sticking.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as mango, pineapple, or even matcha-flavored anko for a unique twist on this classic treat.

Enjoy making and savoring these delightful ichigo daifuku – they’re sure to become a favorite among family and friends! 🍓🍡