Skip to content
Forkin
Dessert

Vegan Shiruko (Red Bean Soup)

This comforting Japanese dessert soup features sweet red beans simmered until tender, creating a rich and satisfying bowl. Served with chewy mochi, it's a delightful treat perfect for cooler weather. This vegan version uses plant-based ingredients for a traditional taste.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
1 hr 45 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium
Download the app
Vegan Shiruko (Red Bean Soup)

Mise en place

Ingredients

Measurements

Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.

Ingredients

  • 250 gazuki bean, dried
  • 150 ggranulated sugar
  • 1 pinchsalt

soup

  • 1,000 mlwater

to serve

  • 8 pcsmochi, dried, small cubes

Equipment

strainer · large pot · serving bowls

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Rinse the azuki beans thoroughly under cold running water.

    About 1 min

  2. 2

    Place the rinsed azuki beans in a large pot and cover with fresh water by about 5 cm. Bring to a boil over high heat.

    About 10 min

    Cook’s note: This initial boil helps remove bitterness from the beans.

  3. 3

    Once boiling, drain the beans completely and rinse them again. This step is crucial for flavor.

    About 2 min

  4. 4

    Return the drained azuki beans to the pot and add the water for the soup. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 60-90 minutes, or until the beans are very tender and easily mashable.

    About 1 hr 30 min

    Cook’s note: Check the beans periodically and add a little more water if they start to dry out.

  5. 5

    Once the beans are tender, stir in the granulated sugar and salt. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the soup has slightly thickened.

    About 15 min

    Cook’s note: Taste and adjust sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Some beans should remain whole for texture.

  6. 6

    While the soup is simmering, prepare the mochi. You can either toast them in a dry pan until lightly browned and puffy, or boil them in hot water for a few minutes until soft and chewy.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Toasting gives a slightly crisp exterior, while boiling makes them uniformly soft.

  7. 7

    Ladle the hot shiruko into individual serving bowls.

    About 1 min

  8. 8

    Place a few pieces of prepared mochi into each bowl of shiruko and serve immediately.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Mochi is best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover shiruko in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Gently reheat shiruko on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Mochi should be prepared fresh when serving.

More recipes

All recipes
  • Thuringian Rostbratwurst with Sauerkrautdinner

    Thuringian Rostbratwurst with Sauerkraut

    This recipe features the famous Thuringian Rostbratwurst, a finely ground pork sausage seasoned with marjoram and caraway. It's traditionally grilled and served with mustard and a crusty roll, alongside tangy sauerkraut. A true taste of Thuringia.

    1 hr 15 min 1,013 kcal
  • Roasted Banana Creamdessert

    Roasted Banana Cream

    A simple yet elegant dessert made by blending deeply flavorful roasted bananas with a touch of rum and sugar, then whipping it with heavy cream until light and fluffy. This creamy, rich treat is perfect for making ahead and serving chilled.

    1 hr 45 min 561 kcal
  • Kiribath (Milk Rice)breakfast

    Kiribath (Milk Rice)

    Kiribath is a traditional Sri Lankan milk rice dish, often prepared for special occasions and celebrations. This simple yet comforting recipe creates a creamy, subtly sweet rice that can be enjoyed with various accompaniments. It's a staple for breakfast or festive meals.

    50 min 522 kcal
  • Aloo Bhajiside dish

    Aloo Bhaji

    This simple Bangladeshi-style potato stir-fry features thinly sliced potatoes cooked with aromatic spices until tender and lightly browned. It's a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs well with rice or flatbreads. The preparation is straightforward, yielding a comforting and satisfying result.

    40 min 228 kcal
  • Aloo Gosht (Pakistani Potato & Meat Curry)main course

    Aloo Gosht (Pakistani Potato & Meat Curry)

    Experience the rich, comforting flavors of Pakistan with this classic Aloo Gosht curry. Tender pieces of lamb and soft, starchy potatoes are simmered in a deeply aromatic, tomato-based gravy, infused with a blend of traditional spices. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, offering a taste of authentic South Asian cuisine.

    1 hr 40 min 580 kcal
  • Pasta alla Normadinner

    Pasta alla Norma

    A classic Sicilian pasta dish featuring tender eggplant, a rich tomato sauce, and fresh basil. This vegetarian meal is comforting and full of Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a satisfying dinner.

    1 hr 666 kcal