Fluffy, soft, and subtly sweet, steamed rice cakes hold a special place in many hearts, evoking memories of comforting childhood treats and cherished family traditions. These delightful cakes, simple in their ingredients yet profound in their flavor, are a versatile delight enjoyed across various cultures, each with its own unique twist. From the delicate texture of the simplest versions to the rich additions of fruits, nuts, or savory fillings, steamed rice cakes offer a canvas for culinary creativity. They're a perfect breakfast, a satisfying snack, or even a delightful dessert.
This recipe focuses on creating those perfectly tender, melt-in-your-mouth steamed rice cakes, capturing the essence of that beloved childhood comfort. Ready to embark on a culinary journey and create these delectable treats yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step process, guiding you through each stage of making these irresistible steamed rice cakes.
Tools Needed
- Sauce pot
- Large bowl
- Plastic wrap or towel
- 9-inch pan
- Steamer pot
Ingredients
- Rice flour
- Sugar
- Water
- Yeast
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Batter
- Dissolve sugar in water in a sauce pot over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
- Mix yeast with warm water in a separate bowl and set aside to bloom.
- In a large bowl, combine rice flour and the cooled sugar water.
- Add the yeast mixture to the rice flour mixture and stir lightly to combine.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel and let it proof for 2-3 hours, or until a thick layer of small bubbles forms on the surface.
Step 2. Steam the Rice Cakes
- Lightly oil a 9-inch pan.
- Pour the rice cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Bring a steamer pot to a boil and place the pan inside. Steam for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3. Cool and Cut
- Remove the cake from the steamer and let it cool completely before cutting. Cutting it while warm will make it stick to the knife.
- Cut the cake into diamonds, wedges, or cubes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Sugar-Free Red Date Cake: A Healthy Chinese New Year Treat
Tips
- Rice flour can be bought at Asian markets or ordered online.
- Ensure the sugar water cools completely before adding it to the flour mixture.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: minimal (close to 0g)g
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: minimal (close to 0g)g
FAQs
1. What kind of rice is best for making fluffy steamed rice cakes?
Glutinous rice (also known as sweet rice) is essential for achieving that characteristically soft and chewy texture. Regular long-grain rice won't work.
2. How do I know when my rice cakes are cooked?
The cakes are done when they are firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They'll also have puffed up slightly.
3. Can I add other ingredients to the basic recipe?
Absolutely! Try adding things like shredded coconut, raisins, red bean paste, or even chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
These fluffy steamed rice cakes are more than just a recipe; they're a journey back to simpler times and a celebration of sweet memories. With their delicate texture and adaptable nature, they’re a perfect treat to share with loved ones, creating new cherished moments around a delicious, homemade dish. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful process of making these irresistible cakes!