How to Cook Azuki

How to Cook Azuki
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Azuki, also spelled adzuki, aduki, adsuki, or asuki, is a small russet colored bean originating in China. Azuki beans have a sweet, strong and nutty taste with a high-protein content. Considered a staple legume in India and Asia, azuki beans are also commonly used in macrobiotic diets, a balanced diet aimed at creating health and longevity. You can cook azuki beans on your stove top or in a pressure cooker. When served with rice, azuki beans will tint the rice to a light pink color.

Step 1

Soak 1/2 cup of azuki beans in 2 cups of water overnight.

Step 2

Drain and rinse the azuki beans.

Step 3

Combine the azuki beans and 2 cups of water in a large pan. Bring the contents to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour.

Step 4

Alternatively, pressure cook your azuki beans in place of simmering for 10 minutes on high.

Tips and Warnings

  • To add flavor to your beans, try adding shallots, ginger, lemon juice and turmeric to your beans for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Failing to soak your beans overnight may lead to gas.

References

  • Adzuki: The Adzuki Bean
  • "Ayurveda: A Life of Balance"; Maya Tiwari, 1995
  • "The Self-Healing Cookbook"; Kristina Turner; 2002

Article reviewed by Jen Raskin Last updated on: May 20, 2011

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