Japanese rice cake with sweet red bean

Steps

1. 1

   Divide the red bean paste into 6 portions and roll them into balls. Chill until needed.

2. 2

   In a heatproof bowl, stir together the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water until smooth.

3. 3

   Microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, or steam the mixture until it turns thick, glossy, and very sticky.

4. 4

   Dust the work surface generously with cornstarch. Turn out the slightly cooled dough, divide it into 6 pieces, and flatten each into a round.

5. 5

   Wrap each piece of mochi around a ball of red bean paste, pinch the seam underneath, and brush off any excess starch before serving.