Welcome to the New Year! In Japan, this time of year is filled with warmth, reflection, and traditions that bring families together. One of my favorite ways to celebrate is by making zenzai, a traditional sweet red bean soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This year, I’ve created a quick, five-minute vlog sharing how I prepare this comforting dish in my 100-year-old farmhouse. Join me as I take you through not just the recipe but also the special touches that make this season magical.
The Heart of the Vlog: Perfect Zenzai in Five Minutes
Zenzai is a quintessential New Year’s treat in Japan. The sweetness of the azuki beans paired with the chewy texture of toasted mochi creates a combination that’s both nostalgic and festive. In the vlog, I share how my neighbors gifted me freshly made mochi, which I grill to golden perfection before adding to the zenzai. For those who enjoy variations, I also mention how shiratama (rice flour dumplings) can be a lighter alternative, especially during the warmer months.
A Glimpse Into Traditional Japanese Life
While the zenzai simmers, I take a moment to embrace another important New Year tradition: refreshing the home. In the vlog, I head to the genkan to swap out my cheerful Santa wall scroll for a stunning Aka-Fuji scroll adorned in red and gold, colors that symbolize good fortune for the year ahead. It’s small rituals like these that make the New Year feel special and grounded in tradition.
I also share a quick moment maintaining my iron kettles, a task that’s both practical and symbolic. Did you know that long ago, tea leaves were used to prevent rust on iron kettles? It’s fascinating to see how these old practices continue to be relevant even today.
Treasures Found During Deep Cleans
New Year’s cleaning is another beloved tradition in Japan, and it’s often during these deep cleans that hidden treasures come to light. In the vlog, I showcase a vintage hair accessory I found, with its striking red color and intact brush teeth—a delightful reminder of the charm and craftsmanship of the past.
Reflecting on the Past, Welcoming the Future
As the zenzai finishes cooking, I prepare my 2025 calendar—a beautifully designed Toyota calendar with a no-waste approach. Its clever feature allows you to cut out a mini calendar for each month, which can be displayed in another part of the house. This thoughtful design mirrors the practicality and creativity I’ve come to admire in Japanese culture.
Reflecting on 2024, I’m filled with gratitude for the little moments of joy, discovery, and tradition that made the year special. With the New Year comes a chance to start fresh, and I’m excited to share this journey with all of you.
Watch the Vlog!
If you’d like to see these traditions come to life and learn how to make zenzai for your own New Year celebration, check out my latest vlog: 5 Mins to Perfect Zenzai Recipe for Oshogatsu. From the cozy kitchen scenes to the meaningful rituals, it’s a heartwarming glimpse into life in a traditional Japanese farmhouse.
Let’s welcome 2025 with sweetness, warmth, and the hope of wonderful things to come. Don’t forget to scroll down for the zenzai recipe so you can try it at home!
Stay tuned for more stories and recipes from this old Japanese house. Here’s to a bright and beautiful New Year! 年末年始に安寧と幸福が誘いますように！
200 grams Azuki beans ( 1 cup)
120 grams to 200 grams of sugar (1/2cup to 1 cup)
a pinch of salt
Mochi or Shiratama (optional)
Bring your beans to a light simmer for about five minutes.
Then remove from the heat and let cool for about 20 minutes.
Discard the water, add fresh water and bring your beans to a simmer for about forty-five minutes to an hour.
Remove from the heat, close with a lid and let sit for 30 minutes.
Next add your sugar and salt and bring back to another simmer for five to six minutes.
Enjoy.