Ikinari Dango with Sweet Soy Glaze

Recipe

Ikinari Dango with Sweet Soy Glaze

Savory Sweet Delights: Ikinari Dango with a Twist

Ikinari Dango is a traditional Japanese dish that combines the simplicity of dumplings with the rich flavors of sweet soy glaze. This recipe adds a twist to the classic dish by incorporating a variety of ingredients to enhance the taste and texture.

Jan Dec

20 minutes

20 minutes

40 minutes

4 servings

Easy

Vegetarian, Vegan (if using vegan-friendly soy sauce and mirin), Gluten-free (if using gluten-free soy sauce and mirin), Dairy-free, Nut-free

Soy

Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein, Raw food

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 12g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Salt: 2g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, mashed sweet potatoes, and sugar. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms.
  2. 2.
    Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a ball.
  3. 3.
    Place the dumplings in a steamer lined with parchment paper and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
  4. 4.
    In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. 5.
    Remove the dumplings from the steamer and brush them with the sweet soy glaze.
  6. 6.
    Serve the Ikinari Dango warm or at room temperature, drizzling any remaining glaze over the dumplings.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as it gives the dumplings their characteristic chewy texture.
  • Mashed sweet potatoes — Ensure that the sweet potatoes are thoroughly cooked and mashed until smooth to achieve the desired consistency of the dumpling dough.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a twist, you can add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top of the glazed dumplings for added flavor and texture.
  • If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can increase the amount of sugar in the sweet soy glaze.
  • To save time, you can prepare the dumplings in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to steam and glaze.

Serving advice

Serve the Ikinari Dango as a delightful snack or dessert. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of green tea for a traditional Japanese experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the glazed dumplings on a serving plate, drizzling any remaining glaze over them. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.