Colorful Mung Bean Fruit Shaped Desserts

Soak the hulled split mung beans in water overnight, or for at least 4 hours, until softened. Drain thoroughly.

Steam the drained mung beans over high heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until very tender. You should be able to mash them easily with a fork. Let them cool slightly.

Transfer the steamed mung beans to a food processor or blender with the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Blend until very smooth. If you don't have a blender, mash thoroughly then pass through a fine-mesh sieve.

Pour the smooth mung bean paste into a non-stick pan or wok. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, for 15-20 minutes, or until the paste is very thick, firm, and no longer sticks to the pan. It should be pliable enough to shape. If using, stir in the jasmine essence. Transfer to a bowl and let it cool completely.

Once cooled, take small portions of the mung bean paste and shape them into miniature fruits or vegetables (e.g., small chilies, mangoes, oranges, apples). Insert a bamboo skewer or toothpick into each shaped piece for easy handling.

Dilute your food colorings with a tiny drop of water if needed. Using small paint brushes, carefully paint details onto your shaped desserts to make them resemble real fruits and vegetables. Let the colors dry for about 10-15 minutes.

In a small saucepan, combine the agar-agar powder and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the agar-agar is fully dissolved (about 2-3 minutes). Reduce heat to low to keep it warm.

Dip each painted Look Choop into the warm agar-agar glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Repeat this process 2-3 times for each piece, letting each layer set slightly before dipping again, to achieve a beautiful, glossy finish. Let them set completely before removing the skewers. Serve and enjoy!