16 Japanese Moon Cake Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
Moon cakes are a traditional Chinese dessert typically enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time of celebration and reunion. However, the popularity of these delectable treats has spread to other Asian countries, including Japan. Japanese moon cakes, also known as "tsukimi dango," have their own unique twist on the classic recipe. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients and steps involved in making this popular Japanese dessert. So, put on your apron and get ready to learn how to make delicious Japanese moon cakes at home.
This Japanese twist on traditional Beer Can Chicken is a game changer. The chicken is coated in a crispy panko crust and served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce. The combination of flavors is irresistible and will have you coming back for seconds.
Who says pancakes are just for breakfast? These savory Japanese pancakes, also known as okonomiyaki, are made with cabbage, bacon, and a flavorful sauce. Top it off with a beer can chicken and you have a unique and delicious meal.
Looking for a light and fluffy dessert to go with your Beer Can Chicken? Look no further than this Japanese ‘cotton’ cheesecake. It’s a cross between a cheesecake and a souffle, giving it a creamy and delicate texture that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the chicken.
Another variation of the classic okonomiyaki, this version swaps out the cabbage for shredded chicken and adds a zesty mayo-based sauce on top. It’s a mouth-watering combination that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
This refreshing cucumber salad is the perfect side dish for any Beer Can Chicken recipe. The tangy dressing is made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, giving it a zingy and savory flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Ramen doesn’t have to be just a college staple. This homemade version is elevated with the addition of Beer Can Chicken, giving it a rich and meaty flavor. Serve it with a soft-boiled egg and some crispy vegetables for the ultimate comfort food meal.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Rice balls, or onigiri, are a popular snack in Japan. This recipe takes it to the next level by stuffing the rice balls with shredded Beer Can Chicken and a spicy mayo sauce. They make the perfect appetizer or on-the-go snack.
Warm up on a chilly night with this hearty and flavorful udon noodle soup. The chicken is cooked in a flavorful broth and served with chewy udon noodles and vegetables. It’s comfort food at its finest.
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Add some Asian flair to your Beer Can Chicken with these homemade gyoza dumplings. The chicken is mixed with cabbage and spices and wrapped in a thin crispy wrapper. Dip them in a spicy soy-based sauce for a delicious and satisfying appetizer or side dish.
Eggplant may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Beer Can Chicken, but this recipe will change that. The eggplant is grilled and topped with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, miso, and earthy mushrooms. It’s a unique and delicious dish that will impress your dinner guests.
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
For a creamy and satisfying meal, try these soba noodles with a spicy peanut sauce. The Beer Can Chicken is mixed in with the noodles and sauce, giving it a bold and flavorful twist. It’s a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
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Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Soy Sauce, Pure Maple Syrup
This classic Japanese grilled chicken dish is a must-try for any Beer Can Chicken lover. The chicken is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled to perfection. Serve it with a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Zucchini may not be the most exciting vegetable, but this recipe will change your mind. The zucchini is grilled and topped with a creamy and zingy lemon sauce and shredded Beer Can Chicken. It’s a light and flavorful option for those looking for a healthier meal.
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Japanese Beef Steak
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sake, Water, New York Steaks
Add some bold and juicy flavors to your Beer Can Chicken with this Japanese beef steak recipe. The beef is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled alongside the chicken. Serve it with some steamed rice for a complete meal.
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Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet and Egg Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko
This filling and flavorful rice bowl combines Beer Can Chicken with a crispy pork cutlet and a runny egg. The chicken is marinated in a savory soy-based sauce and served over a bed of rice. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling full and happy.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Okonomiyaki
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Baking Powder, Vegetable Stock, Eggs, Soy
This twist on the classic Japanese pancake uses sweet potato as the base instead of cabbage. The Beer Can Chicken is shredded and mixed in with the sweet potatoes, giving it a heartier and sweeter flavor. Top it off with a savory sauce and some crispy bacon for a delicious and unique meal.
Curry may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Beer Can Chicken, but this Japanese-inspired curry recipe will change that. The chicken is cooked in a thick and flavorful curry sauce and served over rice. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm you up on a cold night.
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Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
If you’re new to cooking Japanese food, this simple yaki udon recipe is a great place to start. The Beer Can Chicken is mixed in with the udon noodles and a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
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Japanese Ramen with Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Salt, Pepper, Unsalted Butter, Sesame
Looking for a flavorful and filling meal? Look no further than this Japanese ramen with chicken. The chicken is cooked in a rich and spicy broth and served with chewy ramen noodles and a variety of toppings. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cold night.
Tonkatsu, or Japanese pork cutlet, is a popular dish in Japan. This recipe takes it to the next level by adding Beer Can Chicken to the mix. The chicken is coated in a crispy panko crust and served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce. It’s a flavorful and unique dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.
Ingredients for Japanese Moon Cakes
Rice Flour
One of the main ingredients in Japanese moon cakes is rice flour. This gluten-free flour is made from finely ground rice and gives the moon cakes a soft and chewy texture.
Sweet Red Bean Paste
Sweet red bean paste, also known as "anko," is a staple ingredient in Japanese desserts. It is made from cooked and mashed azuki beans and adds a subtle sweetness to the moon cakes.
Mochi Flour
Mochi flour, also known as "shiratamako," is a type of glutinous rice flour that is commonly used in Japanese cooking. It helps give the moon cakes their signature chewy texture.
Sugar
To balance out the sweetness of the red bean paste, sugar is added to the moon cake filling. You can use regular granulated sugar or opt for a more traditional Japanese sweetener, such as "mizuame" or rice malt syrup.
Matcha Powder
For a unique twist on traditional Japanese moon cakes, you can add matcha powder to the dough or filling. This finely ground green tea powder adds a subtle earthy flavor and a vibrant green color to the moon cakes.
Instructions for Making Japanese Moon Cakes
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by making the red bean paste filling. In a saucepan, combine the sweet red bean paste and sugar over low heat, stirring until well combined. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, mochi flour, and sugar. Slowly add in hot water and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough until smooth and then cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Moon Cakes
Divide the dough into equal portions and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball and add a small amount of the red bean paste filling in the center. Gently pinch the edges to seal the filling inside and roll into a smooth ball.
Step 4: Add the Final Touch
If desired, you can roll the moon cakes in matcha powder for a green tea flavor and color. Using a moon cake press, gently press the dough balls into the desired shape and design.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Place the moon cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool before serving and enjoy your homemade Japanese moon cakes.
In conclusion, Japanese moon cakes are a delicious and unique twist on the classic Chinese dessert. With a few key ingredients and simple steps, you can easily recreate this popular Japanese treat at home. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try for your next Mid-Autumn Festival celebration or any time you're craving a sweet and chewy dessert.