Chinese Sweet Red Bean Soup: A Delightful Dessert for All Seasons
Description:
This exquisite dessert, known as Chinese Sweet Red Bean Soup, is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed either hot or cold, making it perfect for warm summer days or cozy winter evenings. Its versatility shines through, as you can easily substitute the red beans with mung beans or white beans, tailoring the soup to your taste preferences. The harmonious blend of ingredients creates a refreshing and satisfying dessert that is both nourishing and delicious.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/3 – 1/2 cup | Sugar |
| 1 cup | Lotus seeds |
| 1/3 teaspoon | Vanilla extract |
| 1 cup | Pearl tapioca |
| 1 cup | Rice balls |
| 7 cups | Water |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 |
| Total Fat | 0.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 4.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 8.6 g |
| Protein | 1.9 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beans:
Begin by combining the water and the red beans in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, allowing the heat to activate the beans. -
-
Simmer the Beans:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the beans to cook uncovered for approximately two hours, or until they become tender. This slow cooking process is essential for achieving the desired texture. -
Add Lotus Seeds and Sweeteners:
After the beans are tender, incorporate the lotus seeds and sugar into the pot. If you desire a richer soup, feel free to add the pearl tapioca and rice balls at this stage. Continue cooking for an additional twenty minutes, monitoring the soup as it thickens slightly and the lotus seeds become tender without losing their structure. -
Flavor the Soup:
Once the lotus seeds are tender, add the vanilla extract to the pot, stirring gently to incorporate the flavors. At this point, you have the option to serve the soup hot for a comforting winter dessert or allow it to cool, then serve it chilled over ice for a refreshing summer treat. -
Customization Options:
This basic recipe offers flexibility; you can omit the beans altogether and increase the quantity of lotus seeds to create a luxurious lotus seed sweet soup, diversifying your dessert repertoire.
Serving Suggestions:
This Chinese Sweet Red Bean Soup can be served in individual bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of additional lotus seeds or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this dessert is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors and comforting texture.
Conclusion:
With a cooking time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and a preparation time of 24 hours for soaking the beans, this recipe yields about 8 servings. This soup is a delicious way to explore the culinary traditions of Asian desserts, making it a perfect addition to your collection of sweet recipes. Enjoy the process of making this delightful treat, and share it with friends and family for a truly memorable dessert experience.
