Zenzai

1. Wash the Azuki beans thoroughly under cold running water. Place the washed Azuki beans in a large pot and add 600 grams of cold water, ensuring the beans are fully submerged. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

2. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and continue to boil the Azuki beans for 5 minutes. Drain the Azuki beans completely, discarding the boiling water. This step removes bitterness and astringency.

3. Return the drained Azuki beans to the clean pot. Add 1200 grams of fresh cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the Azuki beans are very tender and easily crushed between your fingers. Add more hot water during simmering if necessary to keep the beans submerged.