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Decorative Fruit-Shaped Mung Bean Paste Treats

These charming fruit-shaped treats made from mung beans and coconut milk are not only a delightful visual feast but also a healthier alternative to sugary snacks, perfect with tea or coffee.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 20 treats
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Calories: 50

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1/2 cup dried shelled mung beans Look for high-quality, fresh mung beans; they should be bright in color.
  • 2 cups water (for cooking mung beans) Filtered water works best for an even flavor.
  • 1/3 cup sugar You can substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk Full-fat coconut milk gives the best creamy texture.
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.
  • 1 leaf pandan leaf (optional) This adds a beautiful fragrance but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon agar agar powder Make sure to use good-quality agar agar for the right set.
  • 1 1/2 cups water (for agar agar solution) To dissolve the agar agar.
  • food coloring Gel-based colors work great for vibrant hues.
  • small leaves (for decoration) Mint or edible leaves make for beautiful garnishes.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the mung beans under cold water until the water runs clear; this removes any bitterness.
  2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed mung beans and pandan leaf (if using) with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until completely soft and mushy.
  3. If there's excess water, continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and resembles porridge.
  4. Stir in the coconut milk, sugar, and salt until fully dissolved. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or a traditional blender.
  5. Cook the blended mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it becomes a dough that no longer sticks to the spatula, which may take around 20 minutes.
  6. Let the dough cool, then knead until smooth and even in texture.
  7. Test the dough's consistency by shaping a small piece into fruit and adjusting moisture as needed by adding a little water or continuing to cook if it’s too wet.
  8. Roll into 7-8 gram balls and shape them into fruit: strawberries, oranges, or grapes.
  9. For coloring, prepare bowls with drops of food coloring mixed with water. Dip your shapes to achieve a vibrant look.
  10. Prepare the agar agar solution by boiling the agar agar powder with 1 1/2 cups of water until completely dissolved.
  11. Dip each colored fruit into the agar agar solution, letting the excess drip off.
  12. Coat with 3-5 layers of glaze, allowing each layer to dry.
  13. Once glazed and dried, carefully remove any skewers used for shape, and decorate with small leaves.
  14. Store at room temperature for a few hours or refrigerate tightly for longer storage.

Notes

These treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to three days. Best enjoyed fresh! Customize with flavors like vanilla or seasonal spices.