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Chinese Red Bean Dorayaki
Lunch • Singapore
How to Make Chinese Red Bean Dorayaki (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chinese Red Bean Dorayaki has become a beloved fusion treat in Singapore, blending Japanese culinary origins with the multicultural vibrancy of the Lion City. This soft, pancake-like sandwich filled with sweet red bean paste often appears in kopitiams and hawker centres, reflecting the city’s penchant for adapting global favourites into local delights. The dorayaki’s pillowy texture and mildly sweet filling make it perfect for a midday meal or as a light lunch, especially when paired with kopi or teh at your neighbourhood kopitiam. Singapore’s hawker culture is about more than just food—it’s about community and innovation. Chinese Red Bean Dorayaki embodies this spirit, as local vendors have adapted the traditional recipe to suit local tastes and health-conscious diners. The red bean filling, known locally as “hong dou sha,” is often less sweet than its Japanese counterpart, appealing to those who prefer a lighter dessert. Enjoying dorayaki in Singapore is a nod to its fusion heritage, where East Asian influences meet local ingenuity. This healthy version of Chinese Red Bean Dorayaki is a great choice for lunch, offering a balance of energy, taste, and nutrition that fits perfectly into the Singaporean lifestyle.
Ingredients(for 2 dorayaki sandwiches per serving)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour (Can use wholemeal flour for healthier option)
- 2 Eggs (Grade A, local farm eggs)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat milk (Can substitute with oat milk for vegan)
- 2 tablespoons Honey (Pure honey, gula melaka for local twist)
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 3/4 cup Cooked red beans (Hong dou, mashed)
- 1 tablespoon Stevia or brown sugar (For healthier sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil (Can use olive oil, or coconut oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla essence
Instructions
- 1
Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly to remove lumps.
3 minutes
Use a sieve for extra fluffy pancakes.
- 2
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, honey, and vanilla essence until smooth.
3 minutes
Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- 3
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently to form a smooth batter.
4 minutes
Do not overmix to avoid tough pancakes.
- 4
Heat a non-stick pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil. Pour 2 tablespoons of batter per dorayaki, cooking until bubbles form and edges firm up.
5 minutes
Keep heat low for even cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy version of Chinese Red Bean Dorayaki reduces refined sugars and fats, focusing on nutrient-dense ingredients. The recipe is vegetarian and can be adapted for vegan diets, supporting balanced eating. Red beans are low in glycemic index, making them suitable for diabetic-friendly meals. Wholemeal flour and low-fat milk add protein and fiber, keeping you fuller longer without unnecessary calories. Perfect for those tracking macros or looking for a nutritious lunch option.
Chinese Red Bean Dorayaki is a nutritious lunch option, offering a good mix of complex carbohydrates from flour and red beans, protein from eggs, and minimal fat thanks to the use of low-fat milk and vegetable oil. Red beans (hong dou) are rich in fiber, iron, and antioxidants, supporting digestive and heart health. By using stevia or brown sugar, the recipe reduces added sugars, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diners. The use of honey or gula melaka provides trace minerals, while wholemeal flour increases dietary fiber.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use wholemeal flour for extra fiber and a nutty flavour.
- 💡Tip 2: Prepare red bean paste ahead for quicker assembly.
- 💡Tip 3: Keep cooked pancakes covered to retain moisture and softness.
Storage & Serving
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in a microwave or steam for best texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 210.0 kcal |





