Imagine a dessert so stunning it looks like a work of art and tastes like a slice of culinary heaven! Eight Treasure Rice Pudding is not just a dessert; it's a traditional Chinese delicacy that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary experience. This visually breathtaking pudding combines glutinous rice, vibrant dried fruits, and rich red bean paste into a masterpiece that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of China. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 1/4 cup red bean paste
- 1/4 cup dried lotus seeds
- 1/4 cup dried longan
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain completely.
- Soak the dried lotus seeds and longan in warm water for 30 minutes to soften them. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the glutinous rice, water, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is partially cooked and has absorbed most of the water.
- Grease a round steaming dish or traditional ceramic pudding mold with a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the dried fruits (lotus seeds, longan, raisins, and chopped apricots) in a decorative pattern at the bottom of the greased dish.
- Spread the red bean paste in an even layer over the arranged fruits.
- Carefully transfer the partially cooked glutinous rice over the red bean paste, pressing gently to create a compact layer.
- Prepare a steamer by filling the bottom with water and bringing it to a gentle boil.
- Place the rice pudding dish into the steamer, cover, and steam on medium-low heat for 45-50 minutes.
- Check the rice periodically, ensuring the water level in the steamer remains consistent and adding more hot water if needed.
- The pudding is done when the rice is fully cooked, tender, and has a glossy appearance.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting onto a serving plate.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, allowing the decorative fruit pattern to be visible on top.
Tips
- Use high-quality glutinous rice for the best texture and consistency
- Soak dried fruits thoroughly to ensure they're soft and plump
- Arrange fruits carefully at the bottom of the dish for a stunning presentation
- Steam at a consistent, gentle heat to prevent burning or uneven cooking
- Let the pudding rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to help it set properly
- Use a non-stick steaming dish or generously grease your mold to prevent sticking
- For extra richness, you can brush the top with a light syrup after steaming
- Serve at room temperature for the most authentic flavor and texture experience
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
