Red Bean Paste
PREPARATION
Total time: 2 hrs & 30 min
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 2 hrs & 5 min
INGREDIENTS
2/3 cup dried Azuki beans
Water for boiling
1/2 cup sugar, brown sugar
1 tablespoon neutral flavor oil for frying
Chopped walnuts

DIRECTIONS
Rinse the beans in cold water
Place in a bowl or pot, cover with water and soak overnight. Drain and rinse in cold water.
Place in a pot, cover with water, add a dash or two of salt, and bring to a rapid boil. Reduce heat and simmer until soft, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Remove from heat, drain, and cool.
Use a mortar and pestle, food processor, or blender and mash/blend until smooth.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in the sugar (and any optional ingredient such as chopped walnuts).
Heat a wok or stir-fry pan. Add oil and bean paste and fry on medium-low heat for 2 to 4 minutes (until dry) pressing and turning occasionally with a spoon or spatula.
Remove from heat and cool. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until use. The paste may be stored and refrigerated for up to one week. Enjoy!