Description
Watermelon Mochi is a delightful and refreshing Japanese-inspired dessert that combines the chewy texture of glutinous rice flour mochi with the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh watermelon. This easy microwave recipe yields soft, pink mochi balls, perfect for a light summer treat or an impressive party dessert. Garnished with mini chocolate chips or black sesame seeds to mimic watermelon seeds, these mochi are fun to make and even better to eat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mochi Dough:
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
- 3/4 cup watermelon juice (strained to remove pulp)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 to 3 drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
For Dusting and Decoration:
- Cornstarch or potato starch (for dusting)
- Mini chocolate chips or black sesame seeds (for “seeds” decoration, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mochi Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour, granulated sugar, and watermelon juice until the mixture is smooth and consistent. Add 2 to 3 drops of red or pink food coloring if you want a brighter pink hue to resemble watermelon flesh.
- Microwave the Mochi Dough: Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe plate to prevent splatter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then carefully remove and stir the mixture thoroughly. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mochi dough becomes thick, glossy, and sticky. This process generally takes about 2 to 3 minutes total depending on your microwave’s power.
- Cool and Dust Surface: Lightly dust a clean work surface with cornstarch or potato starch to prevent sticking. Transfer the hot mochi dough carefully onto the dusted surface and let it cool until warm and safe to handle.
- Shape the Mochi: Once the dough has cooled slightly, dust your hands with starch and pinch off small pieces. Roll these into smooth balls or flatten them if you want to fill them. Optionally, insert a small piece of fresh watermelon or fruit jam for a filled mochi variation.
- Add “Watermelon Seeds” Decoration: Press mini chocolate chips or black sesame seeds gently into each mochi piece to resemble watermelon seeds, adding visual charm and a subtle flavor contrast.
- Serve: Serve the watermelon mochi at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing dessert experience. Enjoy the delicate, chewy texture combined with the summery watermelon flavor.
Notes
- Watermelon juice can be freshly made by blending seedless watermelon and straining through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp for a smooth mochi texture.
- For a fun twist, try adding a small piece of fresh watermelon or fruit jam in the center of each mochi for a surprise filling.
- Mochi is best enjoyed the same day it is made to maintain optimal softness and chewiness.
- Use starch generously on your hands and surfaces to prevent sticking during shaping.
- If you don’t have a microwave, this recipe can be adapted to the stovetop by cooking the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
