Zongzi

Zongzi is a traditional Chinese sticky rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaves, filled with a savory blend of mushrooms and vegetables. This vegan version offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for a nourishing breakfast.

Ingredients

• Glutinous rice - 200 grams
• Shiitake mushrooms - 50 grams, dried
• Dried lotus leaves - 4 large leaves
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Chestnuts - 50 grams, peeled and chopped
• Green onion - 2 stalks, chopped
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon

Steps

1. Soak the glutinous rice and dried shiitake mushrooms in separate bowls of water for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and mushrooms. Slice the mushrooms into thin strips.
3. In a pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and chopped chestnuts. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, salt, and black pepper to the pan and stir well. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped green onion.
5. Prepare the lotus leaves by rinsing them under hot water to soften. Cut them into large squares, about 30 cm each.
6. Place about 100 grams of glutinous rice on a leaf, flatten it slightly, then add a portion of the mushroom mixture on top. Cover with another layer of rice, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
7. Fold the edges of the leaf over the rice to form a triangular or rectangular parcel. Secure with kitchen twine or a strip of bamboo leaf.
8. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling to make a total of 2 zongzi.
9. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and place the wrapped zongzi inside. Cover and steam for about 1 hour.
10. Once cooked, carefully unwrap the zongzi and serve warm, with extra soy sauce on the side if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
• Low in cholesterol, making it heart-friendly.

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