Used as a filling for soft, baked pastries.

Used as a filling for soft, baked pastries. recipe videos

This is a sweet, dense filling made from cooked red bean paste, typically used in soft, baked pastries like Chinese mooncakes or Japanese dorayaki. It is primarily made from azuki beans, sugar, and sometimes a small amount of oil or salt for balance. Originating in East Asia, particularly China and Japan, it is a staple in traditional confectionery.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This filling is high in carbohydrates, primarily from the beans and added sugar, providing a quick source of energy. A typical serving offers a good amount of dietary fiber and plant-based protein, with a calorie range of approximately 250-300 kcal.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	270 kcal
Protein	8 g
Carbs	55 g
Fat	1 g
Fiber	9 g
Sugar	30 g
Sodium	15 mg
Folate	120 µg
Iron	2.5 mg
Magnesium	60 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Phosphorus	130 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.2 mg
Zinc	1.5 mg

Per 1/2 cup (130 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, red bean paste is deeply symbolic in many Asian festivals, representing good fortune and reunion. Nutritionally, azuki beans are unique among legumes for their high antioxidant content, particularly proanthocyanidins, which contribute to their deep red color.