Homemade Matcha Manjū

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) glutinous rice flour 1 cup (200g) glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder 1 tablespoon matcha powder
• 1 cup (200g) sweetened red bean paste 1 cup (200g) sweetened red bean paste
• Cornstarch, for dusting Cornstarch, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.5g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, granulated sugar, and matcha powder.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the dry ingredients while stirring, until a smooth dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes elastic and pliable.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each portion into a circle.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of sweetened red bean paste in the center of each dough circle.
6. 6.
   Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal the filling.
7. 7.
   Dust a steamer basket with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
8. 8.
   Arrange the filled dough circles in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each.
9. 9.
   Steam the Manjū over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough becomes translucent and cooked through.
10. 10.
    Remove the Manjū from the steamer and let them cool before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Ensure you are using glutinous rice flour specifically, as it provides the desired chewy texture for the Manjū.
• Matcha powder — Use high-quality matcha powder for a vibrant green color and authentic flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a little more sugar to the red bean paste.
• To prevent the dough from sticking to your hands, lightly dust them with glutinous rice flour while shaping the Manjū.
• Serve the Matcha Manjū with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving advice

Enjoy the Matcha Manjū as a delightful afternoon snack or serve them as a dessert at your next Japanese-themed gathering. They pair perfectly with a cup of green tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Matcha Manjū on a beautiful Japanese ceramic plate or a bamboo serving tray to enhance their visual appeal. Sprinkle a small amount of matcha powder on top for an elegant finishing touch.