chinese red adzuki bean
The Chinese red adzuki bean, scientifically known as Vigna angularis, is a versatile legume deeply rooted in Asian culinary traditions. These small, oval-shaped beans are characterized by their vibrant red color and distinct sweet flavor profile. Typically measuring 5-8mm in length, adzuki beans possess a remarkable nutritional composition, including high levels of protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals. These beans are particularly valued for their versatility in both traditional and modern food applications. In terms of technological features, adzuki beans demonstrate excellent cooking properties with a relatively short cooking time compared to other legumes, typically requiring 45-60 minutes to achieve optimal tenderness. They maintain their shape well during cooking while developing a creamy interior texture. The beans are notable for their processing adaptability, being suitable for various preparation methods including boiling, steaming, and grinding into paste. Their natural sweetness makes them particularly suitable for dessert applications, while their protein content makes them valuable for savory dishes as well. Modern processing techniques have expanded their applications to include flour production, paste manufacturing, and even beverage ingredients.