Chinese New Year Sticky Rice
Jump to RecipeWelcome the Lunar New Year with a dish that embodies tradition, flavor, and the joy of family gatherings—Sticky Rice! This Chinese New Year Sticky Rice recipe is not just a meal; it holds deep cultural significance and is a staple at festive celebrations. Made with glutinous rice, fragrant shiitake mushrooms, savory Chinese sausage, and umami-rich dried shrimp, this delectable dish is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re celebrating with family or sharing the joy with friends, this sticky rice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for those looking to embrace Chinese culinary traditions or simply enjoy a comforting, hearty dish, our easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps to create a sticky rice masterpiece. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking methods that will make your New Year’s celebration one to remember!
Ingredients
glutinous rice
Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice, is essential for this dish due to its high starch content which gives it a sticky texture. If you can't find glutinous rice, you can substitute it with sushi rice, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Make sure to soak it for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes tender.
water
The water is crucial for cooking the glutinous rice. The ratio of water to rice is important; for 2 cups of glutinous rice, 3 cups of water is typically ideal. If you're using a steamer, ensure that the water doesn’t touch the rice directly. You can also add a bit of broth instead of water for added flavor.
dried shiitake mushrooms
Dried shiitake mushrooms add a deep umami flavor to the dish. If you don’t have dried shiitake, you can substitute with fresh shiitake or other dried mushrooms like porcini, although the flavor will be different. Always soak them in warm water to rehydrate and enhance their texture and flavor.
chinese sausage (lap cheong)
Lap cheong is a sweet, cured sausage that adds a unique flavor to the dish. If unavailable, you can substitute with other Asian sausages, such as Thai sausage, or even use Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just slice thinly and sauté until crispy to enhance its flavor.
dried shrimp
Dried shrimp provide a salty, seafood flavor that complements the other ingredients. If you can't find dried shrimp, you can substitute with fresh shrimp, sautéing them until cooked through, but reduce the quantity since fresh shrimp have more moisture. Alternatively, you can use fish sauce for a similar umami effect.
soy sauce
Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth of flavor to the dish. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari. If you want a richer flavor, try using dark soy sauce instead of light soy sauce, but adjust the quantity as dark soy sauce is more intense.
sesame oil
Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor to the sticky rice. Use toasted sesame oil for a stronger flavor. If you are looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute with a neutral oil like canola oil, but you will lose the distinctive sesame flavor.
green onions (sliced)
Green onions provide freshness and a mild onion flavor. You can substitute with chives or shallots if green onions are not available. To enhance their flavor, consider lightly sautéing them before garnishing.
salt
Salt is used to enhance all the flavors in the dish. Adjust the amount to your taste, especially considering the saltiness of the soy sauce and Chinese sausage. If you want to reduce sodium, you can use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the salt accordingly.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Soak the Glutinous Rice
Begin by soaking 2 cups of glutinous rice in water. It's best to soak the rice for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This process helps to soften the rice, allowing it to cook evenly and become sticky.Step 2: Prepare the Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
While the rice is soaking, take 4 dried shiitake mushrooms and soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes, or until they are soft. Once softened, slice them into thin strips for better flavor distribution.Step 3: Cook the Chinese Sausage
In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and add 2 sliced Chinese sausages (lap cheong). Sauté them until they are slightly crispy. This step enhances the sausage's flavor, making it a delicious addition to the sticky rice. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.Step 4: Sauté Dried Shrimp and Mushrooms
In the same pan, add 1/2 cup of dried shrimp (which have not been soaked) and the sliced shiitake mushrooms. Cook them until they become fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. This will infuse the oil with wonderful umami flavors.Step 5: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained glutinous rice, sautéed shrimp and mushrooms, the crispy Chinese sausage, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure each grain of rice is coated with the flavors.Step 6: Prepare for Steaming
Transfer the mixture into a steaming dish lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the sticky rice after cooking.Step 7: Steam the Sticky Rice
Steam the rice mixture over high heat for about 30-40 minutes. Check for doneness; the rice should be tender and sticky. If it's not fully cooked, steam for an additional 5-10 minutes.Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the steaming dish from the heat. Garnish the sticky rice with sliced green onions (2) before serving. This adds a fresh touch and a hint of color.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I soak glutinous rice correctly?
Soak the glutinous rice in water for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. Make sure the rice is fully submerged to ensure even hydration.
What is the best way to prepare dried shiitake mushrooms?
Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for about 30 minutes until they soften. After soaking, slice them to incorporate into your dish.
How do I know when the rice is done cooking?
After steaming for 30-40 minutes, the rice should be tender and sticky. If it’s still hard, steam for an additional 10 minutes.
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of dried shrimp?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp, but adjust the cooking time. Fresh shrimp should be cooked until they turn pink, which usually takes 2-3 minutes.
What if I don’t have Chinese sausage?
If you can't find Chinese sausage, you can substitute with any cooked sausage or omit it altogether. You may want to add a touch more salt or soy sauce for flavor.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the steaming dish?
Line your steaming dish with parchment paper or lightly oil it before adding the rice mixture. This will help prevent sticking.
What is the purpose of adding sesame oil?
Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish. It’s a key ingredient in many Asian recipes, enhancing the overall taste.
How do I properly slice green onions?
To slice green onions, first trim off the root ends. Then, chop them crosswise into thin pieces. You can use both the white and green parts.
Is it okay to add more vegetables to the sticky rice?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming or microwaving with a few drops of water to keep it moist.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
This Sticky Rice dish is naturally gluten-free as it primarily consists of glutinous rice. For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the Chinese sausage with plant-based alternatives and replace dried shrimp with additional mushrooms or tofu. Be mindful of the soy sauce, as some brands contain gluten; opt for a gluten-free soy sauce if necessary. This recipe can be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences while still maintaining its traditional essence.
Pairings
This Sticky Rice pairs wonderfully with traditional Chinese dishes such as steamed fish, stir-fried vegetables, or braised meats. For beverages, consider pairing with a light herbal tea like chrysanthemum tea or a refreshing jasmine tea. If you’re looking for something stronger, a light-bodied white wine or a fruity Riesling can complement the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sticky Rice in a bamboo steamer or a decorative dish to maintain warmth and presentation. Garnish generously with sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. This dish can be accompanied by pickled vegetables or a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor complexity. For a festive touch, consider serving it on a large platter surrounded by seasonal fruits like mandarin oranges, which symbolize good luck during the Chinese New Year.
Chinese New Year Sticky Rice
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Description
A flavorful sticky rice dish, infused with rich flavors and perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year!
Ingredients
- glutinous rice: 2 cups
- water: 3 cups
- dried shiitake mushrooms: 4
- chinese sausage (lap cheong): 2
- dried shrimp: 1/2 cup
- soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- green onions (sliced): 2
- salt: to taste
Date Created:
12/29/2024