Yokan is a traditional Japanese dessert dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). It is made primarily from sugar, agar-agar (a vegetable gelatin derived from seaweed) and azuki beans (sweet red beans).
Although azuki beans are the most common ingredient, you can also find Yokan made with other ingredients such as chestnuts, sweet potatoes or matcha green tea, giving varieties in flavor and texture.
It has a soft, gelatinous texture. It is typically cut into blocks or slices before serving. Blocks are usually rectangular or square in shape, depending on the mold used.
In Japan, Yokan is traditionally served in thin slices or small blocks. It is often placed on individual plates or served as part of a Japanese sweets platter (wagashi). It can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by Japanese green tea (matcha) to balance its sweetness with the bitterness of the tea.
It is usually eaten with chopsticks or directly with the fingers. Its soft texture allows it to melt easily in the mouth, releasing the subtle flavors of the azuki beans and the sweetness of the sugar.
Yokan is considered a refined and elegant sweet, appreciated for both its taste and aesthetic presentation. It is served on special occasions such as traditional festivals, tea ceremonies, and as a gift during visits to friends and family.
How to prepare Yokan at home
Source: https://reporteasia.com/cultura/cocina-asiatica/2024/07/02/yokan-elegancia-postres-japoneses/
