It is that time of year again — Chinese New Year! To help celebrate this auspicious time of year, our Communications intern, Yue Huang, has shared one of her favorite food culture recipes for the holidays, Chinese Red Bean Soup. ENJOY!

Chinese Red Bean Soup

A staple in Chinese cuisine, this soup is smooth, mildly sweet and absolutely delicious. It is often served during the holidays as the red color symbolizes luck and happiness. It can be served warm or chilled, as a dessert or breakfast!

You’ll need:

1/2 cup of red beans (azuki beans)

3 tablespoon of sweetener (try maple syrup!)

3 cups of water

2 tablespoon of lotus seeds (available in Asian grocery stores)

2 tablespoon of pearl tapioca

A few peanuts or other types of nuts

Directions:

1. Soak the red beans overnight. Rinse.

2. Combine the beans and water in a medium pot, bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 1 hour and half or until beans are tender.

4. Add lotus seeds, sugar and pearl tapioca. Keep stirring for 15 to 20 minutes until tapioca balls are clear. (Tapioca is a starch, so the soup will thicken as you stir it)

5. Top it with some nuts to add crunch and serve warm, or chilled.