Kashiwa Mochi

Kashiwa Mochi is a traditional Japanese rice cake wrapped in oak leaves, symbolizing strength and resilience. This vegan version features a sweet red bean filling, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• Glutinous rice flour - 100 grams
• Water - 150 milliliters
• Red bean paste (azuki) - 100 grams
• Oak leaves - 4 pieces (fresh or cleaned if dried)
• Sugar - 30 grams
• Salt - a pinch

Steps

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add water to the flour mixture, stirring continuously until smooth and lump-free.
3. Transfer the mixture to a heatproof dish and steam it for about 15 minutes or until it becomes translucent and firm.
4. While the dough is steaming, prepare the red bean paste by dividing it into 4 equal portions and rolling them into balls.
5. Once the dough is ready, remove it from the steamer and let it cool slightly.
6. Dust your hands with a little glutinous rice flour to prevent sticking, then take a piece of dough and flatten it in your palm.
7. Place a ball of red bean paste in the center of the dough and carefully fold the edges over to enclose the filling, shaping it into a round cake.
8. Repeat the process for the remaining dough and filling.
9. Wrap each cake in an oak leaf, ensuring they are fully covered, and allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbs: 40 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 5 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 1 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
• Water: 0.15 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from red beans, which may help reduce inflammation.
• Glutinous rice flour is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

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