Yokan with Matcha Layer (Printer view)

Delicate yokan of smooth koshian red bean with a vibrant matcha agar layer, chilled and sliced for elegant bites.

# 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

# Directions:

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 Suggestions:

01 -
  • You can create a stunning, two-tone dessert that looks like it took expert skill, even if it’s your first time working with agar-agar.
  • Rich matcha and mellow red bean are the rare dessert duo that feel both light and luxurious after a meal.
02 -
  • Once, I forgot to let the matcha layer cool enough and it melted the red bean jelly—patience with temperature is everything here.
  • Skimming off bubbles before chilling makes the top look as pristine as a jeweler’s display.
03 -
  • Stir agar longer than you think to guarantee a smooth texture all the way through.
  • Add the matcha powder off the heat to keep its fresh color and lovely aroma intact.
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