Adzuki Beans (Aduki Beans)Adzuki beans, also spelt aduki or azuki, are small, dark red beans with a thin white line along one side. They are best known for making sweet red bean paste, but they also work well in soups, stews and rice dishes.The beans have a mild, slightly sweet and nutty taste. They are softer and less earthy than kidney beans. When cooked, they turn tender and a little floury, and they mash easily.Ways to Use Adzuki BeansAdzuki beans suit both sweet and savoury cooking, which is why many home cooks keep a bag in the cupboard. Here are some common ideas: Sweet red bean paste (anko) for dorayaki, mochi, taiyaki and steamed buns Chinese red bean soup, served warm or chilled Korean red bean porridge (patjuk) and bingsu toppings Rice cooked with whole beans for a pink-tinged, lightly sweet side Vegetable stews, chilli and grain salads in place of kidney beans How to Cook Adzuki BeansDried adzuki beans cook more quickly than many larger beans, but they still need a little preparation. Rinse them well and pick out any stones. Soak them in cold water for a few hours or overnight.Drain the soaked beans, cover them with fresh water and simmer gently until soft. This usually takes around 45 to 60 minutes. Unsoaked beans take noticeably longer.For sweet dishes, cook the beans until they are completely soft before adding sugar. Sugar added too early can keep the skins firm. Once the beans are tender, stir in the sugar and mash or blend them into a paste.Adzuki Beans or Kidney Beans?Adzuki beans are much smaller than red kidney beans and have a sweeter, gentler taste. This makes them the better choice for desserts and bean pastes. Kidney beans hold their shape better in a long-simmered chilli, so each bean suits a different dish.Adzuki Bean FAQDo adzuki beans need soaking?Soaking is recommended, although not essential. Soaked beans cook faster and more evenly, so a few hours in cold water is a good habit.Are adzuki beans the same as red kidney beans?No, they are different beans. Adzuki beans are smaller, sweeter and softer, and they are used in different dishes.Can I use adzuki beans in savoury dishes?Yes, they work well in soups, stews and rice dishes. Their mild taste takes on spices, ginger and garlic easily.Add adzuki beans to your basket and make your next batch of red bean paste or a warming bean soup at home.
