Yokan (Japanese Sweet Jelly)
Yokan is a traditional Japanese dessert made primarily from adzuki beans and sugar, resulting in a firm, jelly-like treat that is both subtly sweet and satisfying. It is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, particularly in the colder months, and is beloved for its simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- Adzuki beans
- Sugar
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 3.29 g |
| Total Fat | 0.12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.043 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60.72 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 27.0 mg |
| Iron | 1.16 mg |
| Magnesium | 18 mg |
| Phosphorus | 40.0 mg |
| Potassium | 45.0 mg |
| Sodium | 83.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.07 mg |
| Copper | 0.029 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.14 mg |
| Selenium | 2.3 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.005 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.004 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.057 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.008 mg |
| Folate (B9) | 8.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information:
Yokan is typically made from adzuki beans and sugar, which makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies. However, itβs important to note that certain variations of yokan might include additional ingredients like agar-agar or other thickeners, which may be processed in facilities that handle common allergens such as soy or nuts.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegan: Yokan is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegans.
- Gluten-Free: This dessert is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no wheat or other gluten-based ingredients.
- Low in Fat: Yokan is a low-fat treat, containing only 0.12 grams of total fat per serving.
- Low in Sugar: Traditional yokan recipes use minimal sugar, making it a sweet treat thatβs not overly sugary, though the sugar content may vary depending on preparation.
Advice:
Yokan can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert or paired with traditional Japanese tea, such as matcha or sencha, for a harmonious experience. Due to its high carbohydrate content, it is a great energy-boosting snack. If you’re looking to adjust the sweetness, feel free to experiment with alternative sweeteners like stevia or agave syrup for a lower-sugar version.
Conclusion:
Yokan is a beautifully simple and nutritious Japanese delicacy that combines the earthy richness of adzuki beans with the satisfying texture of a jelly-like dessert. With its minimal ingredients, Yokan is a great option for those seeking a sweet treat that aligns with various dietary preferences. Whether you’re new to Japanese desserts or an experienced connoisseur, Yokan offers a delightful way to explore the flavors of Japan in a wholesome, traditional form.
