Red Dates Stuffed with Sweet Bean Paste
A classic Chinese dessert blending the chewy sweetness of red dates with the silky smoothness of red bean paste, offering a delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients
5 items- Dried red dates (jujubes) 200g (7 oz)
- Adzuki beans (red beans) 100g (1/2 cup)
- Granulated sugar 50g (1/4 cup)
- Lard or vegetable oil 20g (1.5 tbsp)
- Water as needed
Nutrition
Steps （6 steps）
Soak dried red dates in warm water for 30 minutes until plump. Use scissors to slit each date and remove the pit, keeping the fruit intact.
Drain soaked adzuki beans and place in a pot with enough water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 50 minutes until the beans are very soft.
Drain the cooked beans and mash until smooth in a food processor or with a potato masher. Heat lard in a skillet over medium heat, add bean paste and sugar, then reduce heat to low and stir-fry for 15 minutes until the paste dries and holds together.
Allow the bean paste to cool slightly. Stuff a portion into each pitted date, pressing gently to fill the cavity and level the surface.
Arrange the stuffed dates on a plate in a steamer basket. Steam over high heat for 8 minutes until the dates are tender and aromatic.
If desired, drizzle with honey or sweet osmanthus before serving. Best enjoyed warm.
Tips
Choose dates of uniform size; cut carefully to avoid breaking; stir bean paste constantly over low heat to prevent burning; adjust sugar to taste.
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