Kiukai

Kiukai refers to a type of Japanese confectionery, often translated as "sweet bean paste confectionery." It is characterized by its soft, chewy texture and the use of azuki bean paste as a primary ingredient. These sweets are typically molded into various shapes, often resembling flowers, animals, or seasonal motifs. The sweetness of the bean paste can be balanced with other ingredients such as sugar, glutinous rice flour (mochiko), and sometimes starch.

The preparation of kiukai involves cooking the azuki beans until soft, then mashing them into a paste. This paste is then sweetened and mixed with other binding agents. The mixture is then kneaded and shaped, often by hand or using molds. Some variations may include other fillings or coatings, adding to their diversity. Kiukai are popular as traditional Japanese sweets, enjoyed with green tea or as a treat during festivals and special occasions. Their visual appeal, coupled with their delicate flavor, makes them a well-loved part of Japanese culinary culture. The term itself is derived from Japanese words related to "sweet" and "paste" or "dough."