Mochi the Modern Way

It's been years since I made mochi but recently I decided to make a batch to use up some left over ppat (sweet red bean paste).  This is a quick and easy modern microwave version rather than having to pound rice the traditional way.

Recipe:
1 cup sweet rice flour (Mochiko)
1/2 tsp salt
3 1/2 Tbsp sugar
1 cup water
3/4 cup sweetened red bean paste
1/2 cup potato starch or cornstarch

Directions:
1. Combine flour, salt, sugar and water.
2. Microwave for about 2 minutes (preferably in a microwaveable bundt pan)
Note: The mixture should be set but still soft.  Taste it--it should not have any granules of flour or sugar.  Microwave a little longer if necessary.  Take care not to over cook it the dough otherwise it will be too firm to shape.
3. Stir the cooked mixture with a wooden spoon for 3 minutes by hand.
4. Shape gently into a 12" log.  Roll in starch to prevent sticking.
5. Cut into 8 equal pieces.
6. Flatten one piece and put in a tablespoon of red bean paste and fold the edges around the paste.  Shape into a ball, rolling it in starch to prevent sticking.  Repeat with the other 7 pieces of dough.

Hope you enjoy this easy recipe as much as I do!