Nian Gao (Rice Cake)

Nian Gao, or Chinese Rice Cake, is a chewy and slightly sweet delicacy traditionally enjoyed during celebrations, particularly during the Lunar New Year. This Halal version is made with glutenous rice flour and can be enhanced with savory ingredients for a delightful midnight treat.

Ingredients

• Glutinous rice flour - 200 grams
• Water - 150 milliliters
• Brown sugar - 50 grams
• Vegetable oil - 1 tablespoon
• Dried mushrooms (shiitake or similar) - 30 grams
• Spring onions - 2, finely chopped
• Soy sauce (Halal) - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Pepper - 1/4 teaspoon

Steps

1. Soak the dried mushrooms in warm water for 20 minutes until softened, then chop them finely.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, water, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth and no lumps remain.
3. Add the chopped mushrooms, spring onions, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the rice flour mixture. Mix well.
4. Grease a steaming dish with vegetable oil, then pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Prepare a steamer by boiling water, then place the steaming dish in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for about 30 minutes or until the cake is firm.
6. Once done, remove the dish from the steamer and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a drizzle of soy sauce or chili oil.

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbs: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
• Water: 0.15 L

Health Benefits

• Glutinous rice is a good source of energy and provides carbohydrates for fuel.
• Mushrooms offer antioxidants and can support immune health.

Tags