Chinese sticky rice is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even a snack. It pairs wonderfully with other Chinese delicacies

Our Easy Home Cook Rice Dish Recipe

Easy Chinese Sticky Rice Dish

Recipe by Cinnamon GrayCourse: RiceDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

1/2 cup Sticky rice
1/2 Cup Brown rice
1/2 Cup Yellow millet
2 x Eggs
4 x spring onions(green onions)
1 x tbs seasoned soy
1 x tsp 13 spice seasoning
1 x tsp chicken seasoning
1 x tsp blended sesame oil
salt

Directions

Combine sticky rice, brown rice, yellow millet cook in rice cooker for 20 minutes.
Heat shallow pan with 2 – 3 tbs cooking oil high heat.
Add 2 x whisked eggs cook, remove and set aside.
Add more oil, seal the spring onions with 1 x tsp 13 spice seasoning.
Add the rice, and egg to the pan.
Add tbs of soy
Add Chicken seasoning.
Add 1 x tsp blended sesame oil.
Add a pinch of salt to taste
Cook for 8 mins and serve

Recipe Video

Notes

Put your own spin on it enjoy and have fun!

Asian Ingredients

I. A general introduction

A. The Irresistible Allure of Chinese Sticky Rice

Chinese cuisine is a delightful world of diverse flavors and textures, and one dish that stands out for its unique appeal is Chinese sticky rice. Whether you call it “Zongzi” or “Nuo Mi Fan,” these tasty rice parcels offer a burst of flavors that can make your taste buds dance with joy.

B. A Culinary Journey into Chinese Cuisine

Embarking on a journey to make Chinese sticky rice is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about exploring the rich tapestry of Chinese culinary traditions. It’s a dish that has deep cultural roots and can be a fulfilling experience for both your palate and your soul.

II. Understanding Sticky Rice

A. The Secret Ingredient: Glutinous Rice

At the heart of Chinese sticky rice is glutinous rice, also known as sweet rice or sticky rice. Unlike regular long-grain rice, glutinous rice contains a higher starch content that gives it its signature stickiness. This unique quality is what sets it apart in Chinese cooking.

B. Why Sticky Rice is Unique in Chinese Cooking

Chinese sticky rice is not just about its texture; it’s about the way it interacts with a myriad of flavors and ingredients. The glutinous nature of this rice allows it to hold its shape while absorbing the essence of the ingredients it’s cooked with, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

III. Preparing Ingredients and Equipment

A. Sourcing Glutinous Rice

To create the perfect Chinese sticky rice, it’s crucial to start with high-quality glutinous rice. Visit your local Asian grocery store or order it online. Opt for a reputable brand to ensure the best results.

B. Key Equipment You’ll Need

Gather your equipment, which typically includes bamboo leaves or lotus leaves for wrapping, kitchen twine, and a steaming apparatus. Traditionalists may use a bamboo steamer, but a regular steamer or even a microwave can also do the trick.

IV. Soaking and Washing the Rice

A. The Art of Proper Soaking

Before you can begin cooking, soak the glutinous rice in water for at least four hours, or overnight for the best results. This soaking process is essential to ensure the rice cooks evenly and becomes delightfully sticky.

B. Washing to Perfection

After soaking, give the rice a thorough rinse to remove excess starch. This step is crucial to achieve the desired texture. Rinse until the water runs clear, indicating that most of the starch has been removed.

V. Flavoring and Seasoning

A. Traditional Chinese Flavors

Chinese sticky rice can be flavored with a variety of ingredients, including Chinese sausages, dried shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, and seasoned soy sauce. These traditional flavors add depth and complexity to the dish.

B. Modern Variations and Customization

While tradition is important, don’t be afraid to get creative. You can experiment with ingredients like chicken, pork, or even vegetarian options. The possibilities are endless, and customization allows you to create a unique flavor profile that suits your preferences.

VI. Cooking Methods

A. Steaming: The Classic Approach

The traditional method of cooking Chinese sticky rice involves steaming the rice parcels. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping the rice moist and sticky. Steam for about 1-1.5 hours until fully cooked.

B. Alternatives: Stove and Microwave Options

If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a steamer insert on the stovetop or even the microwave for quicker preparation. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and keep a close eye on the rice.

VII. Assembling and Wrapping

A. Crafting the Perfect Sticky Rice Parcel

Assembling the rice parcels is an art in itself. Place the soaked and seasoned glutinous rice onto the softened bamboo or lotus leaves, add your desired fillings, and fold them into a neat, compact parcel. Secure with kitchen twine.

B. Creative Wrapping Techniques

While the classic pyramid shape is traditional, feel free to explore different wrapping techniques to make your sticky rice parcels unique. The shape and appearance can be as delightful as the taste.

VIII. Serving and Enjoying

A. Presentation Matters

The visual appeal of your Chinese sticky rice parcels is just as important as the taste. Unwrap them with care and present them beautifully on a plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a burst of color.

B. Pairing with Delicious Chinese Dishes

Chinese sticky rice is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even a snack. It pairs wonderfully with other Chinese delicacies like dumplings, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple hot and sour soup.

In conclusion, making Chinese sticky rice is a delightful culinary adventure that allows you to explore the rich traditions of Chinese cuisine while satisfying your taste buds with a burst of flavors and textures. Whether you stick to tradition or infuse your creativity, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dining table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on the journey of crafting your own delicious Chinese sticky rice. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 cups glutinous rice
Bamboo leaves or lotus leaves for wrapping
Kitchen twine
Filling ingredients of your choice (e.g., Chinese sausages, dried shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, seasoned soy sauce, etc.)
Water for soaking and rinsing

Equipment:

Steaming apparatus (bamboo steamer, regular steamer, or microwave)
Large pot for soaking
Kitchen scissors

Directions:

1. Soaking the Glutinous Rice:

Place the glutinous rice in a large pot or bowl.
Add enough water to cover the rice and soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Soaking allows the rice to absorb moisture and become sticky when cooked.

2. Preparing the Bamboo or Lotus Leaves:

If using bamboo leaves, soak them in hot water for 30 minutes to soften them. If using lotus leaves, blanch them in boiling water until they become pliable. Trim any excess stem or tough parts.

3. Washing the Rice:

After soaking, rinse the glutinous rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, ensuring the rice doesn’t become overly gummy when cooked.

4. Seasoning the Rice:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the washed glutinous rice with your choice of seasoning. Traditional options include Chinese sausages, dried shrimp, soaked shiitake mushrooms, and seasoned soy sauce. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.

5. Assembling the Rice Parcels:

Lay out a pair of bamboo or lotus leaves on a clean surface.
Place a small amount of the seasoned glutinous rice in the center of the leaves.
Add your desired filling ingredients on top of the rice.
Fold the leaves over the rice and filling to create a neat, compact parcel. Secure with kitchen twine, tying it tightly.

6. Steaming the Rice:

Prepare your steaming apparatus. If using a bamboo steamer, line the bottom with additional bamboo leaves to prevent sticking.
Arrange the rice parcels in the steamer, leaving space between them for steam to circulate.
Cover the steamer with a lid.

7. Cooking the Rice:

Steam the rice parcels for about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of your parcels and your chosen cooking method. Ensure that there is a steady supply of steam throughout the cooking process. The rice is done when it becomes tender and sticky.

8. Serving and Enjoying:

Carefully unwrap the parcels and transfer the sticky rice to a plate.
Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve your Chinese sticky rice as a main course, side dish, or snack, and enjoy the rich, flavorful experience of this traditional Chinese delight.

Remember, while these directions provide a basic guide, you can get creative with your choice of ingredients and wrapping techniques to make your Chinese sticky rice truly unique. Whether you stick to tradition or add your twist, the result is sure to be a culinary delight.