Description
These Delicious Steamed Rice Cakes are a traditional snack made from glutinous rice that is soaked, steamed, and shaped into chewy, flavorful cakes. Perfect as a light snack or side dish, they can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with optional toppings like sesame oil or soy sauce for added taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups glutinous rice (sticky rice)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 1/4 cups water
Optional Flavoring and Toppings
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional, for savory topping)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Place the glutinous rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Soak the rice: Soak the rinsed rice in water for at least 2 hours or overnight to help it steam evenly and become soft and sticky.
- Prepare the steamer: Set up your steamer by bringing water to a simmer. If you don’t have a steamer, use a large pot with a steaming rack or a heatproof dish over boiling water.
- Steam the rice cakes: Drain the soaked rice and place it in a heatproof dish or steaming basket. Sprinkle salt and sugar over the rice for seasoning.
- Steam the rice: Steam the rice for about 30-40 minutes until soft and chewy, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Shape the rice cakes: Remove the steamed rice from heat and let cool slightly. While warm, shape into small cakes or balls using wet hands to prevent sticking.
- Add optional flavoring: Drizzle sesame oil over the rice cakes or serve with soy sauce for a savory flavor boost.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately as a snack or with toppings such as sweet red bean paste, honey, or sautéed vegetables for added variety.
Notes
- Soaking the rice overnight yields softer rice cakes.
- Use wet hands to shape the sticky rice easily without it sticking.
- Rice cakes are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Customize with sweet or savory toppings depending on your preference.
- Glutinous rice is essential for the chewy texture; regular rice will not yield the same result.
