’Tsubu-an’ (Sweet Azuki Paste) is the most popular ‘An’ (Bean Paste). Canned Tsubu-an, that contains a lot of sugar and additives, is available from most Japanese or Asian grocery stores, but they are pricey. Tsubu-an is very easy to make. If you have never made it by yourself, try it just once. You will never wish to buy it again.

Makes

About 400g

Ingredients

1 cup (*200g) Dry Azuki Beans (Red Beans) 
1 cup Sugar
1 pinch of Salt

Method
  1. Place Azuki beans in a large saucepan or a pot and cover them with a plenty of water, and cook until the beans are swollen and plump. Darin the water.
  2. *Note: Soaking the beans in water overnight saves cooking time, but not neccesary.
  3. Place the beans back into the saucepan and cover them with plenty of water again and cook until the beans are very tender. Drain the water.
  4. Place the beans back into the saucepan, add Sugar and a pinch Salt, and cook and mash slightly until it gets the texture. If you like it sweeter, add more Sugar.
  5. *Note: Using Canned Azuki Beans, it would be even easier to make. Find the recipe here.