Red Bean Soup: What’s the Story Behind Shiruko?

If you’ve ever visited a Japanese winter market, you’ve probably spotted a warm bowl of red bean soup. What’s the deal with shiruko? Is it just beans, or does it have a deeper meaning? Well, there’s a lot more to this cozy treat than meets the eye!

What is shiruko?

Shiruko is a cozy Japanese dessert soup with sweet azuki beans and chewy mochi. It’s warm, slightly sweet, and comforting — perfect for those chilly days! While it’s typically a winter treat, many people enjoy it all year. 

This sweet soup, made with azuki beans and sugar, is often paired with soft mochi or rice dumplings. In the Kanto region, all sweet red bean soups, made with smooth or chunky bean paste, are called shiruko.  

Shiruko’s roots go way back to the Edo period (1603–1868) when sugar started to pop up more often. Back then, it was considered a medicinal food and thought to chase away evil spirits and keep you healthy! Fast-forward and shiruko became the cozy, sweet treat we know today, enjoyed during winter festivals and family hangouts. Talk about a dish with history!

Are there any other sweets in Japan that

Okinawa zenzai

Zenzai is typically served warm in Japan, with sweetened azuki (red beans) and chewy mochi. It’s the perfect cold-weather treat. But in Okinawa, things get a little different! Here, zenzai is served chilled, topped with a mountain of shaved ice. It’s like a snow cone with sweet beans – talk about a cool twist! 

Okinawa zenzai is made with kokuto (brown sugar) instead of regular sugar, giving it a rich flavor. Also, they sometimes use red kidney beans instead of azuki beans, thanks to post-war influence from the U.S. military. Adding condensed milk or shaved ice flavors like matcha (Japanese green tea) or strawberry makes it even more delicious! 

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Taiyaki

Taiyaki is a fun, fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. Crispy on the outside and warm inside, it’s a classic Japanese treat often sold at street stalls. It’s perfect for a quick, tasty snack on the go!

The sea bream fish, a symbol of good luck in Japan, inspires taiyaki’s shape. You can find many variations of taiyaki with custard, chocolate, or even sweet potato fillings. There are so many choices!

Dorayaki 

Dorayaki is a tasty treat with two soft pancakes and sweet red bean paste in the middle. The pancake is fluffy and pairs perfectly with the filling. Usually enjoyed as a snack or dessert, dorayaki is often served with tea. Simple yet so satisfying!

You can find dorayaki everywhere in Japan, from convenience stores to cute little sweet shops. Some modern versions feature different fillings, like whipped cream, custard, or even green tea cream. Yum!

Anmitsu

Anmitsu is a classic Japanese dessert with sweet red bean paste and a mix of goodies. It’s a fun dessert salad featuring rice flour dumplings, agar cubes, and fresh fruits. The red bean paste adds a rich sweetness, while agar and dumplings keep it light and refreshing. 

Want a twist? Add sour fruits like pineapple or kiwi to balance the sweetness with a zesty kick! For a sweeter version, go for bananas – they create a perfect harmony with the bean paste. For that perfect final touch, top it off with kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup). And if you’re feeling extra, get the cream anmitsu with a scoop of ice cream. 

Why are red bean soups popular in Japan?

People love red bean soups in Japan because they’re warm, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying! These soups have been warming hearts for centuries, packed with tradition and just the right balance of sweet and savory. Not to mention, they’re especially popular in the winter!

Whether the cozy vibes of shiruko in winter or the cool twist of Okinawan zenzai with shaved ice, red bean soups hit the spot year-round. Plus, the versatility of azuki beans means they pair perfectly with everything from rice dumplings to fruits.

So, grab a bowl next time you’re in Japan and experience the magic for yourself! Have you tried shiruko or these red bean desserts before? Do you have a favorite one? Let us know in the comments below!