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Mung Bean Paste for Mooncakes

For those who want a lighter, fragrant filling with a soft texture and mild sweetness.

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g mung beans peeled if possible.
  • Water for soaking and cooking.
  • 80 to 120 g sugar depending on sweetness preference.
  • 1/4 tsp salt.
  • 1 to 2 pandan leaves knotted.
  • 50 to 70 g neutral vegetable oil.
  • Optional: 1 to 2 tbsp butter coconut milk, or a little starch for a richer texture.

Instructions
 

  • Soak the mung beans in water overnight, or at least for several hours.
  • Drain the beans and place them in a pot with enough water to cover them by about 2 inches.
  • Add the pandan leaves and bring to a boil.
  • Cook over medium-low heat until the beans are very soft and break apart easily.
  • Stir occasionally and add a little water if needed to prevent the beans from drying out too quickly.
  • Once soft, remove the pandan leaves and blend the beans into a very smooth paste.
  • Transfer the paste to a non-stick frying pan or wok and cook over low heat.
  • Add the sugar and salt, then stir continuously until the mixture starts to thicken.
  • Add the oil gradually, a little at a time, stirring well after each addition until fully absorbed.
  • Continue cooking until the paste becomes smooth, thick, and no longer sticks to the pan.
  • Let the paste cool completely, then chill it in the fridge before using it as mooncake filling.

Notes

Tips for Mooncake Filling:
  • For a more bakery-style filling, use more sugar and oil so the paste becomes smoother and richer.
  • Keep the heat low so the paste does not burn or turn grainy.
  • The paste should be firm enough to roll into balls after chilling.
  • If the paste seems too soft, keep stirring over low heat until it reaches the right consistency.