As a traditional delicacy for the Mid-Autumn Festival, mooncakes are loved by people of all ages. They come in a variety of types and flavors to meet different preferences and are rich in various nutrients, making them an indispensable dish during the holiday.
When making red bean paste mooncakes, the basic ingredients required include low-gluten flour, white sugar, water, and vegetable oil. First, mix the white sugar, water, and vegetable oil in a container and stir thoroughly until well combined. Next, after sifting the flour, slowly add it to the liquid mixture and knead it into a smooth dough. Then, wrap it in a plastic bag or cling film and let it rest for about an hour to allow it to rise.
The process continues by rolling the risen dough and the pre-prepared red bean paste into small balls, typically in a 1:1 ratio, which can be adjusted according to personal preference. Take a piece of dough, flatten it, roll it into a skin, fill it with the red bean paste, carefully pinch the edges to seal, and roll it into a ball. To prevent sticking, lightly dust the surface with flour, then use a mooncake mold to shape it and imprint patterns. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake for 5 minutes initially to set the shape. Remove the mooncakes, brush the surface with egg wash, then lower the oven temperature to 165 degrees Celsius and continue baking for about 25 minutes. Be attentive to the oven temperature to avoid cracking the mooncakes.
When making the red bean paste, mastering the heat is key to ensuring the paste reaches the ideal softness, hardness, and moisture. It is recommended to use an electric pressure cooker to prepare the red bean paste for improved efficiency and taste. Additionally, throughout the entire process, pay attention to the sweetness of the mooncakes to ensure the final product is not overly sweet but still flavorful.
As for the calorie content of red bean paste mooncakes, they tend to be relatively high due to the significant amounts of sugar and fat. For those who are mindful of calorie intake, it is advisable to consume them in moderation.
