Japanese-Style Cast Iron Manju
A traditional Japanese dessert, Manju is sweet steamed buns filled with a sweet bean paste. In this recipe, we use a cast iron pan to give the buns a crispy bottom. Perfect as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients
- ●1/2 cup zenzaiJapanese sweet bean paste
- ●1 1/2 cups flourall-purpose flour
- ●1/4 cup moistsweetened red bean paste
Instructions
- 1
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- 2
2. Gradually add warm water to the flour mixture and knead for 10 minutes until a dough forms.
- 3
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on the size you prefer your Manju to be.
- 4
4. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it slightly into a disk shape.
- 5
5. Place a tablespoon of zenzai in the center of each disk.
- 6
6. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers.
- 7
7. Apply a thin layer of moist to the surface of each Manju.
- 8
8. Heat a cast iron pan over medium heat and add a small amount of water to the pan.
- 9
9. Place the Manju in the pan and cover with a lid.
- 10
10. Steam the Manju for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through and the bottoms are crispy.
- 11
11. Serve the Manju warm with additional zenzai if desired.