Mochi is a traditional Japanese dessert made from glutinous rice flour (mochiko), known for its unique chewy texture. It’s often filled with sweet red bean paste, ice cream, or fruit. Mochi is naturally gluten-free, and this version is a simple stovetop or microwave recipe perfect for beginners. This recipe makes about 8 small mochi.
Ingredients
For the Mochi Dough:
1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko – do not substitute with regular rice flour)
¾ cup water
¼ cup sugar
Cornstarch or potato starch (for dusting)
Optional Fillings:
Sweet red bean paste (anko), chilled
Small scoops of ice cream (keep frozen until needed)
Fresh strawberries or mango chunks
Instructions
1. Make the Mochi Dough (Stovetop or Microwave)
In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water until smooth and lump-free.
For microwave: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2 minutes. Stir, then microwave for another 1–1½ minutes until the dough is sticky and semi-transparent.
For stovetop: Pour mixture into a nonstick pan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a sticky, stretchy dough.
2. Cool Slightly and Prepare Work Surface
Dust a clean surface or large tray with cornstarch. Transfer the hot mochi dough onto it. Let it cool just enough to handle, then gently flatten into a ½-inch thick sheet using your hands or a rolling pin, dusting with more starch to prevent sticking.
3. Cut and Fill
Cut into 8 pieces using a knife or cutter. Place a spoonful of red bean paste or a small scoop of ice cream in the center of each. Carefully fold the mochi over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Roll gently into balls. Dust off excess starch.
4. Chill and Serve
If using ice cream, freeze mochi for 30 minutes before serving. If using red bean or fruit, chill in the fridge until ready to eat.
Tips for Success
Work quickly—mochi dough gets stickier as it cools
Use plenty of cornstarch or potato starch to prevent sticking
Store filled mochi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1–2 days (except for ice cream mochi, which should stay frozen)
Mochi dessert is soft, stretchy, and customizable with your favorite fillings.
