Yokan Japanese Red Bean Matcha (Print Version)

Silky yokan bars combining sweet anko and a bright matcha layer, chilled and sliced for elegant tea-time servings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Red Bean Jelly Layer

01 - 400 g sweetened red bean paste (anko, smooth type ‘koshian’ preferred)
02 - 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) water
03 - 5 g agar-agar powder (about 1 1/2 tsp)

→ Matcha Jelly Layer

04 - 1 cup (240 ml) water
05 - 4 g agar-agar powder (about 1 tsp)
06 - 2 tbsp sugar
07 - 1 1/2 tsp matcha green tea powder, sifted

# How to Make It:

01 - In a saucepan, combine water and agar-agar powder. Stir and bring to a gentle boil, simmering for 1-2 minutes until agar is fully dissolved.
02 - Remove from heat. Whisk in the sweetened red bean paste until completely smooth and combined.
03 - Pour the mixture into a rectangular mold (approximately 7x5 inches or similar). Skim off any bubbles. Let cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to set lightly.
04 - In a clean saucepan, combine water and agar-agar powder. Stir well and bring to a boil, simmering for 1-2 minutes.
05 - Lower the heat. Add sugar and whisk in the sifted matcha powder until no lumps remain and fully dissolved.
06 - Let the matcha mixture cool to about room temperature (warm but not hot), then gently pour it over the set red bean layer.
07 - Chill the assembled yokan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.
08 - Remove from mold, slice into bars or squares, and serve chilled.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The layers look impressive but come together more easily than you'd guess, and it's just the kind of dessert that gets quiet wows at the table.
  • Once chilled, yokan slices into jewel-like pieces that somehow survive warm afternoons—it's refreshing, not cloying, and always a conversation starter.
02 -
  • If the agar isn’t fully dissolved, you’ll wind up with unpleasant bits—give it a full simmer and stir, no shortcuts.
  • Let the matcha mixture cool before pouring or the layers may bleed together and lose their distinct look.
03 -
  • Taste your matcha before adding—some brands are sharper, so you might want to adjust the sugar.
  • For a striking look, use a clear mold or glass container so you can admire the layers before serving.
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