Sweet Red Bean Soup with Mochi

Pour 1 quart (1 liter) of the measured water to the saucepan and heat over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Once the water comes to a boil, add adzuki beans and continue boiling for 20 minutes over medium heat. Drain the beans in a colander and discard the water. Rinse the saucepan. Repeat this process once more to remove any bitterness from the beans.

Add another 1 quart (1 liter) of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, about 5 minutes. Return the drained beans to the saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes. Drain again and discard the liquid.

Rinse the saucepan, then return the beans along with Soup Mixture. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, occasionally mashing the beans with a spatula to create a textured consistency.

Toast the mochi in a toaster oven or grill until puffed and golden. Add the toasted mochi to the soup and serve.