Sticky Sweet Rice with Red Beans (Sekihan)
Right then, let's dive into this sweet rice recipe , shall we? have you ever just fancied something a bit different, something that's comforting but not too heavy? well, i've got just the thing! this sticky sweet rice with red beans , or sekihan as they say in japan, is proper delicious and surprisingly easy to make.
Trust me, even if you’re more used to beans on toast, you’ll nail this!
Discover the Magic of Sekihan
This isn't just any old cooked rice pudding ! sekihan is a classic japanese dish often served at celebrations. imagine a slightly sweet, nutty sweet rice recipe perfectly paired with the earthy flavour of red beans.
The red colour? it's considered lucky, you know.
It's a doddle to make, really, even if it needs a bit of planning, as it takes around 1 hour 35 minutes, plus soaking time.
This sweet rice recipe makes about six portions. it’s not complicated, i promise, but a little attention to detail is key.
It's a bit like making a perfect rice cooker pudding , but you can totally do it on the hob too!
Why This Sweet Rice Recipe Rocks
Honestly, i love how naturally vegan this sweet rice recipe is. plus, it's packed with fibre and is pretty good for you! think of it as a treat that doesn’t completely derail your healthy eating plan.
I reckon it’s perfect for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just when you're craving some moms old fashioned rice pudding but want a japanese twist.
This dish is unique because it combines a slightly savory element with a subtle sweetness. you can even use leftover rice pudding , or get more creative and use rice pudding with oatmilk for this recipe!
Now, before we get started, you might wonder about using rice pudding made with minute rice ? i wouldn't recommend it as the texture won't be as good.
The secret is to use glutinous rice (sweet rice), so make sure you get your hands on that!
Right, now that we've got that sorted, let's have a peek at what ingredients we'll need.
Alright, let's get down to the nitty gritty! we’re diving into the ingredients and equipment you’ll need for this gorgeous sweet rice recipe , so you can make cooked rice pudding that'll knock your socks off.
Honestly, it's easier than you think, especially if you have a rice cooker .
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
This ain't rocket science. But, precision helps.
- Adzuki Beans: 1 cup (200g) dried. Look for vibrant, unbroken beans. Old beans take forever to soften, trust me.
- Water: 6 cups (1.4L) , divided. Tap water is fine, unless yours tastes funky. Then use filtered!
- Baking Soda: ½ tsp . Seriously, don't skip this. Helps soften the beans like magic.
- Sea Salt: ½ tsp for beans, ¼ tsp for rice, or to taste. Sea salt just tastes… better, you know?
- Glutinous Rice (Sweet Rice): 3 cups (600g) . It must be glutinous! That's what gives it that yummy sticky texture.
- Adzuki Bean Cooking Liquid: ¼ cup (60 ml) . Save this after boiling the beans! Don't throw it away!
- Water: ½ cup (120 ml) . For cooking the rice with the bean liquid.
Seasoning Notes
Let’s get this rice pudding with evaporated milk party started.
Think simple here. salt is your best friend. a tiny bit of salt enhances sweetness. i always add a pinch more than i think i need.
Don’t be scared. the sesame seeds (optional) add a lovely nutty flavour and a bit of crunch. if you have gomashio , sesame salt, it's just divine.
If you're feeling fancy, a tiny drop of vanilla extract can be interesting. I once tried it with almond extract, disaster! Stick to vanilla, or leave it out entirely.
For a touch of warmth, a teeny tiny pinch of ground ginger is interesting! Just don’t overdo it. We are aiming for traditional flavours and not overpowering the rice pudding!.
If you are making rice pudding with leftover rice , try adding some cinnamon powder! It gives an amazing taste and aroma! Or, even using rice pudding with oatmilk
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, folks.
- Large Pot: For boiling those beans. Any old pot will do.
- Fine Mesh Sieve: For draining the beans. A colander works too, just make sure the holes aren't massive.
- Rice Cooker : Honestly, life is easier with one. But, if you don't have one...
- Heavy Bottomed Pot with Lid OR Steamer Basket: For stovetop cooking. The heavy bottom prevents scorching.
- Mixing Bowl: For soaking the rice. Any bowl will do!
My nan used to make mom's old fashioned rice pudding in a cast iron pot. so thick and lovely. using a rice cooker pudding method is also very convenient, though, especially after a long day.
Honestly? this sweet rice recipe is all about the love you put into it. relax, enjoy the process. it's about creating a dish that feels comforting and special.
And i've had people use rice pudding made with minute rice when in a pinch, so don't be too afraid to experiment!
Alright, let’s dive into the wonderful world of cooking, particularly, a sweet rice recipe . i'm no gordon ramsay, but i’ve definitely had my fair share of kitchen adventures.
Honestly, some have been disastrous, others pure culinary gold. today, it’s all about nailing the perfect sweet rice recipe , think along the lines of a cooked rice pudding but with a fun, japanese twist.
Prep Like a Pro: Sweet Rice Starts Here
First things first: the mise en place , darling. that’s fancy chef speak for "get your act together before you start cooking!" for this sweet rice recipe , grab 3 cups of glutinous rice , 1 cup of adzuki beans (these give the dish its signature red hue, so don't skip 'em!), salt, and water.
Now, here’s a time saving tip my nan taught me: soak the adzuki beans and sweet rice overnight . seriously, do it.
It cuts down cooking time and ensures a perfectly tender , sticky result. trust me, no one wants crunchy rice.
Safety wise, just remember the basics: wash your hands, and don’t lick the spoon... unless you’re the only one eating!
step-by-step Sweet Rice Bliss
Ready to get cooking? Let's go!
- Soak beans and rice: Rinse and soak overnight .
- Cook the beans: Boil adzuki beans until tender , about 45- 60 minutes . Reserve 1/4 cup cooking liquid.
- Combine in the rice cooker: Add rice, cooking liquid, and a pinch of salt to your rice cooker . If you haven't got a rice cooker, then you'll need to use a heavy bottomed pan, but let's be honest, it's 2024 - get a rice cooker. It will save your life.
- Add the beans: Gently spread the cooked adzuki beans on top.
- Cook: Use the sweet rice or sticky rice setting on your rice cooker. Around 20- 25 minutes is what you're looking for.
- Steam: If you're stovetop ing it, let it steam, covered for 10 minutes .
- Fluff and serve: Gently fluff and serve warm.
Visual cues for doneness? The rice should be shiny and sticky , not mushy. The beans should be soft but hold their shape.
Pro Tips for Sweet Rice Perfection
Honestly, mastering the sweet rice recipe is all about practice. My biggest blunder? Not soaking the rice long enough. Rookie mistake!
Here are some expert tips :
- Don’t skip the soaking! Seriously, it’s key.
- Gently fluff the rice. You don't want to mash everything.
- If you're feeling fancy, toast some sesame seeds for garnish.
Worried about making too much? leftover rice pudding possibilities abound. you could also make a rice pudding with leftover rice the next day, or even experiment with a rice pudding with oat milk if you are dairy-free.
I've even seen some moms old fashioned rice pudding recipes that start with leftover cooked rice!
And hey, if you're after other quick and easy options, don't discount rice pudding made with minute rice , though i'd stick to the real deal for sekihan.
You could also try making a rice cooker pudding , or even explore evaporated milk recipes dessert easy , like a rice pudding with evaporated milk .
There are just so many options.
So there you have it. a little bit of patience, a dash of love, and you'll be whipping up a sweet rice recipe that would make your nan proud.
Now, go forth and conquer that kitchen!
Alright, let's chat about some extra bits and bobs for this sweet rice recipe . You know, the stuff that elevates it from "meh" to "bloody brilliant!"
Recipe Notes
Serving Suggestions: Plating & Par-tay!
Right, so you've got this gorgeous pile of cooked rice pudding , almost! don't just sling it on a plate.
Think presentation! little bowls are cute. garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. bam! instant sophistication. i reckon it'd be smashing served alongside some grilled salmon.
Or even as part of a proper bento box. a cuppa green tea on the side? sorted. honestly, it will feel like an evaporated milk recipes dessert easy thing to do!.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh, Keep It Safe!
Leftover leftover rice pudding ? lucky you! pop it in the fridge. it'll keep for about 3 days. make sure it's in an airtight container, yeah? freezing isn't ideal, the texture might go a bit weird.
Reheating? a gentle zap in the microwave usually does the trick. or, if you're feeling fancy, steam it again. i tried to freeze this once.
. never again. trust me. you can also use the rice cooker pudding function.
Variations: Get Your Creative On!
Fancy a twist? a spoonful of steamed sweet potato, gently folded in, adds a lovely sweetness. for the plant based peeps, good news this recipe is already vegan! or try it with rice pudding with oatmilk .
Moms old fashioned rice pudding always has a secret twist!, and you can make yours the same!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Grain!
Okay, let's get a bit sciencey. this dish is a good source of carbs. hello, energy! the adzuki beans offer a bit of protein and fibre.
It's not exactly a health food, but it's a damn sight better than a packet of crisps. you know? think of it as comfort food with benefits.
Remember, portion sizes are key! when i first tried this recipe, i was amazed!
Conclusion: Give it a Go!
So there you have it. my thoughts, my stories, my occasional ramblings. don't be scared to give this sweet rice recipe a go.
Even if you mess it up the first time, who cares? cooking is all about experimenting and having a laugh.
Now, bugger off and get cooking! you can even make rice pudding with evaporated milk and rice pudding with leftover rice .
Just try to make rice pudding made with minute rice if you are out of options! i'm off to make myself a brew and put my feet up.
Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is sweet rice, and is it the same as regular rice?
Sweet rice, also known as glutinous rice or mochigome, is a type of rice that becomes sticky and chewy when cooked. It's different from regular long grain or short grain rice, which have a drier, fluffier texture.
Think of it like the difference between a fluffy sponge cake and a sticky toffee pudding both delicious, but very different textures!
Why is soaking the sweet rice for my sweet rice recipe so important? Can I skip it?
Soaking the sweet rice is crucial for achieving that perfect sticky texture in your sweet rice recipe! Soaking allows the rice grains to fully hydrate, ensuring they cook evenly and become deliciously chewy.
Skipping the soaking step can result in rice that's hard in the center or unevenly cooked, a bit like serving undercooked yorkshire puddings - a culinary faux pas!
Can I make this sweet rice recipe in a regular pot if I don't have a rice cooker?
Absolutely! While a rice cooker makes things easier, you can definitely cook sweet rice on the stovetop. Use a heavy bottomed pot with a tight fitting lid. After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and simmer gently until all the water is absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
Just like baking a cake without burning it, keep a close eye on it and don't be afraid to peek (briefly!) to check the water level.
My sweet rice turned out too mushy! What did I do wrong?
Mushy sweet rice usually indicates that you added too much water or cooked it for too long. Try reducing the amount of water slightly in your next batch. Also, ensure you're using the correct "sweet rice" or "sticky rice" setting on your rice cooker, if you have one.
The key is to treat this sweet rice recipe a bit like a delicate Soufflé, gently gently!
How should I store leftover sweet rice, and how long will it last?
Leftover sweet rice should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will generally keep for 2-3 days. To reheat, add a tablespoon or two of water and microwave it for a minute or so, stirring halfway through. This helps rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out.
Think of it as giving your sweet rice a spa day!
Can I freeze this sweet rice recipe for later?
Yes, you can freeze leftover sweet rice! Divide the rice into portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer safe bag or container. Frozen sweet rice will last for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as usual, adding a little water to prevent dryness, just like how you would give a frozen ready meal some extra moisture!
Sticky Sweet Rice With Red Beans Sekihan
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 320 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 4g |
