Name: Chewy Matcha Mochi Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko); 1 tablespoon matcha powder; 3/4 cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup/agave nectar as an alternative); 1 cup water; Pinch of salt; Cornstarch or potato starch, as needed for dusting; Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

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Introduction

Chewy Matcha Mochi Bites are a delightful treat that combines the earthy flavor of green tea with the signature chewy texture of mochi. These bite-sized sweets are perfect for a snack or a unique dessert to impress your friends and family.

The image shows seven small green round mochi arranged on a black wire cooling rack. Each mochi is lightly dusted with white powdered sugar on top, creating a soft texture contrast. One mochi in the center is cut in half, revealing a crumbly green filling inside. The black wire rack sits on a white marbled surface with a wooden texture softly visible below the rack's edges. The lighting is warm and natural, highlighting the smooth and slightly shiny surface of the mochi. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
1 tablespoon matcha powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup/agave nectar)
3/4 cup water
Cornstarch or potato starch (for dusting)
A pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Sift the matcha powder and glutinous rice flour into a medium bowl to remove clumps. Add the sugar and a pinch of salt, then mix together.
Step 2: Gradually pour in the water while stirring continuously to form a smooth batter, similar in consistency to pancake batter. Adjust with more flour or water if needed.
Step 3: Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a gentle simmer. Pour the batter into a heatproof dish and cover it to prevent condensation.
Step 4: Steam the mochi batter for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes until the dough is thick, glossy, and firm to the touch.
Step 5: Remove the dough and let it cool for 10-15 minutes until it is easier to handle.
Step 6: Dust your hands and a work surface with cornstarch or potato starch. Scoop small amounts of dough and roll into bite-sized balls, placing them on a starch-dusted plate.
Step 7: Dust the shaped mochi bites lightly with cornstarch or powdered sugar to prevent sticking and add a soft finish.
Step 8: Serve immediately or store as directed below.

Tips & Variations

For a sweeter coating, dust mochi bites with a mix of powdered sugar and matcha powder.
Try using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized mochi bites.
If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a bit more starch to your hands and work surface.

Storage

Store mochi bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, as they may lose chewiness over time. For a firmer texture, refrigerate for a few hours before serving, but allow them to return to room temperature for optimal flavor and softness.

How to Serve

The image shows eight round green mochi dusted with white powdered sugar, arranged on a round black wire cooling rack. One mochi is cut in half and placed in the center, revealing a coarse, grainy green filling inside. The mochi have a smooth, soft texture and a slightly shiny surface. The setup is on a white marbled textured surface with a blurred brown background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make mochi bites without a steamer?

Steaming is the traditional method for cooking mochi dough, but you can also use a microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. However, texture may vary slightly compared to steaming.

Why is cornstarch or potato starch used when shaping mochi?

These starches prevent the sticky mochi dough from adhering to your hands and the work surface, making it easier to handle and shape the mochi bites without mess.