Zhongzi (Sticky Rice Dumplings)

Zhongzi, or sticky rice dumplings, are a delightful blend of savory fillings wrapped in glutinous rice and bamboo leaves, offering a unique taste of Chinese culture. This kosher version is perfect for a hearty breakfast, combining traditional flavors with dietary considerations.

Ingredients

• Glutinous rice - 200 grams
• Dried mushrooms - 50 grams
• Dried shiitake mushrooms - 30 grams
• Soy sauce (kosher) - 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable oil - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried chestnuts - 50 grams
• Bamboo leaves - 6-8 leaves
• Water - 1 liter

Steps

1. Soak glutinous rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Soak dried mushrooms and dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 30 minutes, then chop them finely.
3. In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped mushrooms for about 5 minutes.
4. Add dried chestnuts (chopped) to the pan along with soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Drain the soaked glutinous rice and mix it with the mushroom and chestnut filling in a bowl.
6. Rinse bamboo leaves under running water to clean, then soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to soften.
7. Take two bamboo leaves, place them on top of each other, and fold them into a cone shape.
8. Fill the cone with about 100 grams of the rice mixture, then fold the leaves over to enclose the filling and secure tightly with kitchen twine.
9. Repeat the process for the remaining dumplings.
10. In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. Add the wrapped dumplings and simmer for 1 hour, ensuring they are submerged.
11. After cooking, remove the dumplings from the pot and let them cool slightly before unwrapping.
12. Serve warm, optionally with additional soy sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Provides a good source of energy due to high carbohydrate content.
• Contains fiber from mushrooms and chestnuts, promoting digestive health.

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