Chinese sticky rice cake, or “nian gao,” is a traditional dish enjoyed during holidays like Chinese New Year. The soft, chewy texture combined with a sweet and savory sauce makes it a flavorful treat. This dish can be served as an appetizer or a part of a larger meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cup glutinous rice (sticky rice)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1/2 cup Chinese sausage, sliced
• 1/4 cup dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and sliced
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and place it into a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or parchment paper. Steam the rice over boiling water for about 30 minutes, or until soft and sticky.
3. In a small pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the Chinese sausage and sauté until it becomes crispy.
4. Add the soaked and sliced shiitake mushrooms to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce. Stir well to make the sauce.
6. In a large bowl, toss the steamed sticky rice with the sausage-mushroom mixture and the sauce until everything is evenly mixed.
7. Transfer the rice mixture into a greased dish, pressing it down to compact it.
8. Steam the entire dish again for about 15 minutes.
9. Once done, let it cool for a bit, then slice into squares. Garnish with roasted peanuts if desired.

Nutrients

• Calories: 280 per serving
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg

The Cultural Significance of Chinese Sticky Rice Cake

Sticky rice has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for thousands of years. The use of glutinous rice is prevalent in many traditional dishes, not only because of its sticky, cohesive nature but also due to its cultural symbolism. Glutinous rice is thought to represent unity, and its sticky consistency reflects the idea of strong familial ties. In Chinese culture, food holds a special place in celebrations and rituals, and sticky rice cake plays a significant role in marking important occasions.

Chinese sticky rice cake is particularly popular during the Lunar New Year celebrations, where it is often served as part of a meal symbolizing prosperity, good luck, and longevity. In this context, the dish is considered a way to “stick” together as a family and to grow stronger in the year ahead. The cake is often given as gifts to relatives and friends, further enhancing its symbolic meaning of unity and well-wishing.

How to Prepare Chinese Sticky Rice Cake

While Chinese sticky rice cake may seem complex at first glance, it’s made using a relatively simple set of ingredients. The dish is often steamed, though some versions of the recipe also involve frying it after steaming to create a crispy outer layer. The key is to ensure that the rice becomes perfectly sticky and tender, so that it can absorb the flavors from the savory sauce and other ingredients.

The preparation begins with soaking the glutinous rice overnight. This step is crucial because it ensures that the rice cooks evenly and becomes soft and sticky when steamed. The Chinese sausage and shiitake mushrooms add a savory, umami-packed flavor to the rice, creating a delicious balance of taste and texture. The combination of sweet brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce gives the dish a rich and savory base, complementing the other ingredients.

Once the rice and ingredients are prepared, the sticky rice mixture is transferred into a greased dish and steamed for another round to allow the flavors to meld together. This process results in a dish that is not only full of flavor but also has a smooth, sticky texture that makes each bite enjoyable.

The Versatility of Chinese Sticky Rice Cake

One of the reasons why Chinese sticky rice cake has remained popular for centuries is its versatility. Depending on regional variations and personal preferences, the dish can be made in various ways, each offering a unique twist on the traditional recipe. Some variations may include additional ingredients such as shrimp, vegetables, or even chestnuts, which all add different textures and flavors to the dish.

Another popular method of serving Chinese sticky rice cake is by frying it after it has been steamed. This technique is commonly seen in many Chinese households, where the dish is cut into squares and pan-fried until golden brown. The frying process gives the rice cake a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining its chewy interior. This method is often preferred for its contrast in textures and the enhanced flavor that comes with the frying process.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese sticky rice cake can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion. It can be sliced into squares and served as an appetizer or side dish at family gatherings or special events. During Chinese New Year, it’s common for families to gather around the table to enjoy sticky rice cake as part of a multi-course meal. The rich, savory flavors of the sticky rice cake complement other dishes like stir-fried vegetables, braised meats, and soups, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

In addition to being a side dish, Chinese sticky rice cake can also be served as a main course. When served as the main dish, it’s often paired with a simple broth or a salad to balance the rich, sticky texture of the rice. For a complete meal, consider pairing sticky rice cake with some stir-fried vegetables, crispy fried tofu, or a protein like chicken or pork.

The dish can also be enjoyed as a snack or quick bite, especially if fried after being steamed. The crispy texture on the outside combined with the soft, chewy rice inside makes for a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Health Benefits of Chinese Sticky Rice Cake

While Chinese sticky rice cake is undoubtedly a flavorful and satisfying dish, it also comes with certain health benefits. Glutinous rice is a source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy throughout the day. It also contains small amounts of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a relatively nutritious choice when consumed in moderation.

The ingredients used in the recipe, such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce, are rich in antioxidants, which help to combat inflammation and promote overall health. Mushrooms, such as the shiitake mushrooms used in this recipe, are also known for their immune-boosting properties and are often included in traditional Chinese medicine for their health benefits.

However, as with many traditional dishes, Chinese sticky rice cake can be high in sodium and fat due to the use of soy sauce and oils. To make the dish slightly healthier, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or reducing the amount of oil used in the cooking process. Additionally, you can incorporate more vegetables or lean proteins to increase the dish’s fiber and nutrient content.

Conclusion

Chinese sticky rice cake is a delicious and versatile dish that holds deep cultural significance in Chinese cuisine. Its chewy, sticky texture combined with the savory, umami flavors of the soy sauce, Chinese sausage, and shiitake mushrooms make it a perfect addition to any meal.