Kinako (きな粉, 黄粉) is roasted soybean flour. It is made by finely grinding roasted soybeans into a fine powder. The Japanese use it in various Wagashi and sprinkle it over mochi. You could also add a few spoonfuls to yogurt or smoothies. As a soybean product, it’s high in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, saponins, and isoflavones.
What Does It Taste
It tastes nutty without the bean-y taste and smell of soybeans. Some say it’s similar to roasted peanuts. It’s slightly sweet and is mixed with sugar when used in wagashi.
Recipes Using Kinako (Roasted Soybean Flour)
Where To Buy
You can find kinako in the dried food aisle of Asian and Japanese grocery stores. Wish to learn more about Japanese cooking? Sign up for our free newsletter to receive cooking tips & recipe updates! And stay in touch with me on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram.
