Chinese Sticky Rice, known as “Lo Mai Fan,” is a delightful dish made from glutinous rice that’s traditionally steamed with a medley of savory ingredients. This comforting recipe is celebrated for its unique texture and flavor, capturing the essence of Chinese cuisine in every bite. The rice becomes a canvas for ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, Chinese sausage, and dried shrimp, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. With its sticky consistency and aromatic profile, Chinese Sticky Rice is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night in.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this recipe for its rich flavor and appealing texture. The combination of sticky rice with savory elements creates a harmony that delights the palate. Additionally, it’s incredibly easy to cook—just soak, mix, and steam! Ideal for those following gluten-free or vegetarian diets (with some adjustments), this dish is also a fantastic option for meal prep, making it a versatile choice for busy lifestyles. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!
Tips and Tricks
- Soaking is Key: Ensure you soak the glutinous rice for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to achieve that perfect sticky texture.
- Layer Flavors: Sauté any protein or vegetables before mixing them with the rice to deepen their flavors.
- Use Banana Leaves: For an authentic touch, consider wrapping the mixture in banana leaves before steaming. It adds a subtle fragrance to the dish.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: A splash of soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Make Ahead Tips
To make your life easier, you can soak the rice and prepare the filling a day in advance. Store the soaked rice in the refrigerator and keep the filling (cooked ingredients) separate. When you’re ready to make the dish, just combine everything and steam. The cooked sticky rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the meat for a mix of diced tofu and more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
- Spicy Twist: Add chopped chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Different Proteins: Experiment with different types of proteins such as chicken, duck, or even crab meat for a luxurious twist.
How to Serve
Serve your Chinese Sticky Rice in bamboo steamers or on a large platter for a communal dining experience. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color. For a crunchy texture, consider serving alongside crispy fried shallots or peanuts.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a refreshing jasmine tea or a light, fruity white wine like Riesling. For side dishes, consider serving with a simple stir-fried vegetable medley or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the sticky rice.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze your sticky rice, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to a month. To reheat, steam it again or microwave it with a little water to restore moisture.
Equipment Needed
- Steamer: A bamboo steamer or a metal steamer basket is essential for cooking the rice.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the soaked rice with your chosen ingredients.
- Rice Cooker: If you have one, it can simplify the soaking and cooking process, though it’s not mandatory.
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegan: Use plant-based proteins and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and ingredients are gluten-free (most soy sauces have gluten).
- Nut-Free: If you’re allergic, avoid any nuts in the recipe and ensure your sauces are nut-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, you can add fresh peas and asparagus for a seasonal twist. In the fall, consider incorporating roasted pumpkin or butternut squash for a warm, comforting flavor profile.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice? No, regular rice will not yield the same sticky texture that is characteristic of this dish.
- How long does it take to steam? Typically, about 30-45 minutes, depending on the quantity you are steaming.
- What can I substitute for Chinese sausage? You can use any cooked sausage or even omit it for a vegetarian version.
Chinese Sticky Rice
Chinese Sticky Rice, known as “Lo Mai Fan,” is a delightful dish made from glutinous rice that’s traditionally steamed with a medley of savory ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups glutinous rice (also called sticky rice)
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, soaked and diced
- 1 cup Chinese sausage, diced
- 1/2 cup dried shrimp, soaked
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the Rice: Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and shrimp. Sauté until everything is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked rice, sautéed filling, green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Prepare the Steamer: Line your steamer with parchment paper or banana leaves to prevent sticking. Spoon the rice mixture into the steamer, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
- Steam the Rice: Bring water to a boil in your steamer pot. Place the steamer over the boiling water, cover, and steam for about 30-45 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: The rice should be sticky and tender when done. If needed, steam for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the steamer and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional green onions or cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 316Total Fat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 56mgSodium: 1207mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 12g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Sticky Rice is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation and the versatility to adapt to your tastes, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore the delicious world of Chinese cuisine. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!
