Traditional Japanese candies rely on ingredients such as bean paste, rice flour, chestnuts and sweet potatoes. To a standard American palate these treats, or wagashi, may seem unusual or lacking in sweetness. They are, however, an excellent light accompaniment to a cup of green tea and are often quite pretty, especially if you take the time to package your homemade Japanese candy beautifully.
Instructions
make Japanese Candy
1. Combine the mochiko sweet rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, baking powder and 2 cups of water in a large mixing bowl.
2. Beat by hand or with a mixer until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. If you are mixing by hand, use a wire whisk to create an evenly textured mixture.
3. Add red food coloring until the color you prefer is achieved. A paste food coloring may produce a stronger and truer red than a liquid. For an authentic look, be generous with the food coloring.
4. Spread the mixture in a greased 9-by-13-inch pan and bake for one hour at 325 degrees. Turn the oven off, but leave the candy in the closed oven for 15 minutes.
5. Allow to cool completely and cut into strips. Dust each strip with cornstarch or potato starch. Cut into small rectangular pieces, using a knife wrapped in plastic wrap for easier cutting.
Tags: food coloring, rice flour