Patbingsu Red Bean Shaved Ice

Rinse the dried adzuki red beans thoroughly. In a large pot, add the rinsed beans and cover with 3 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then immediately drain the water. This step helps remove bitterness.

Return the blanched beans to the pot and add another 3 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-50 minutes, or until the beans are very tender and easily mashable.

Drain most of the cooking water, leaving just enough to keep the beans moist (about 1/4 cup). Add the granulated sugar to the pot. Mash the beans lightly with a potato masher or spoon to your desired consistency. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the paste thickens slightly. Let it cool completely.

If using a bingsu machine, freeze the milk in a shallow tray or ice cube molds. If using a regular ice shaver, freeze water into ice cubes. Shave the frozen milk or ice cubes into fine, fluffy snow into individual serving bowls.

If using mini tteok, boil them in water for 1-2 minutes until soft, then drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. If using store-bought sweet red bean paste, simply ensure it is chilled.

Divide the shaved ice among the serving bowls. Spoon a generous amount of the homemade sweet red bean paste over the ice. Arrange the cooked mini tteok on top.

Drizzle generously with sweetened condensed milk. For an authentic touch, sprinkle with injeolmi powder if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing Korean dessert.