Anko (Japanese Sweet Red Bean Paste)

Step 1: Put red beans in a pot with 4-5 cups of water. Let boil for 5 minutes and discard water.

Step 2: In a clean pot, place red beans and 4-5 cups of water, cover, and let it simmer at low heat for 1 1/2 to 2 hours (add more water to keep above the beans). When done, the beans should be very soft and easily crushed between fingers.

Step 3: Drain, then place the soft beans back in the pot with the sugar. Cook at medium high heat, stirring constantly for about 10 minutes or until it forms a paste that looks shiny but still a little loose. Immediately transfer the paste to a container.