Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (380g) glutinous rice (also known as sweet rice or sticky rice)
  • 1 cup (240ml) water, for soaking the rice
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water, for steaming
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or peanut oil
  • Optional Toppings: Chinese sausage, diced (approximately 1/2 cup)
  • Optional Toppings: Dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and diced (approximately 1/4 cup)
  • Optional Toppings: Dried shrimp, soaked and chopped (approximately 1/4 cup)
  • Optional Toppings: Scallions, chopped
  • Optional Toppings: Soy sauce, to taste
  • Optional Toppings: Sesame oil, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the glutinous rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
  2. Place the rinsed rice in a large bowl and cover with water. Soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. Ensure the rice is fully submerged.
  3. Fill the bottom of the steamer with water and bring it to a boil.
  4. Drain the soaked rice thoroughly using a fine-mesh sieve or colander. Toss the drained rice with the vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Spread the rice evenly on a steaming basket or heatproof plate that fits inside the steamer. Make a few small wells in the rice to allow steam to penetrate evenly.
  6. Steam the rice over high heat for 20 minutes. Then, pour the water over the rice and steam the rice for another 10-20 minutes, or until the rice is translucent and cooked through.
  7. To test for doneness, taste a few grains of rice. It should be tender but still slightly chewy.
  8. While the rice is steaming, you can saute your desired toppings in a separate pan until fragrant and cooked through.
  9. Fluff the cooked rice with a spoon or spatula. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with your chosen savory toppings. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil to taste.