Watermelon Mochi
Soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh watermelon flavor, these watermelon mochi bites are a perfect refreshing treat for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh watermelon juice (strained) Look for fresh, ripe watermelons for the best taste.
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour (sweet rice flour) Essential for the chewy texture. Do not confuse with regular rice flour.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar Can be substituted with non-refined sugar.
For Dusting
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch To prevent sticking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by measuring 1 cup of strained, fresh watermelon juice. If your juice is too thin, simmer it gently for about 5 minutes until it reduces to a cup. Let it cool before moving on.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour and granulated sugar. Gradually pour in the cooled watermelon juice while whisking until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Loosely cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir well, then cover and cook for another minute. Stir again and continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the dough becomes thick, sticky, and translucent, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes total.
- Dust a clean work surface lightly with cornstarch. Carefully scrape your hot mochi dough onto the cornstarch and dust the top lightly to prevent sticking.
- Once it’s cool enough to handle, dust your hands with cornstarch. Flatten the dough gently into a rectangle and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- For each piece, roll it into a small ball. If you want a filling, flatten the piece out, place a small piece of chilled watermelon in the middle, pinch the edges closed, and roll it into a smooth ball.
- Arrange your Watermelon Mochi bites on a plate dusted with cornstarch to keep them from sticking together. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Notes
Ensure your watermelon juice is well-strained for smooth dough. The dough should be thick and sticky; don’t overcook it or it won’t have that perfect chewiness. Use a microwave-safe bowl that can handle high heat without warping. Dust every surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking—your clean-up will thank you! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.