Zenzai

Japanese zenzai is an unusual dessert which combines thick red bean soup with mochi, the famous sticky rice cake. It can be made by boiling dried red beans or diluting anko (sweetened red bean paste) in water. The soup can either have a coarse or a completely smooth texture. Zenzai can be enriched with different flavors such as orange zest, but the flavor should generally be subtle and earthy with a hint of sweetness. Before serving, the hot mochi cakes which have been heated or grilled are placed into this hearty liquid dessert. Zenzai is eaten with a spoon and chopsticks, and it is occasionally served with sour ingredients such as pickled plums or kombu tea, which contrast nicely with the sweetness of the soup. Although it is a traditional and comforting winter dessert that is usually eaten warm, zenzai can be chilled and served during summer, usually alongside a few scoops of ice cream. Across Japan, there are different varieties of zenzai, such as the Okinawa version made with green beans, or the soba zenzai made buckwheat dumplings. It is believed that the dish was introduced to Japanese cuisine in the 18th century after sugar was brought to the country. Zenzai and its varieties are also eaten outside Japan, primarily in China, North Korea, and Vietnam.