Chinese Imperial Glutinous Rice Balls in Sweet Ginger Soup

Ingredients

In Chinese imperial cuisine, the adaptation of Chè trôi nước involves incorporating the essence of Chinese flavors and presentation. The original Vietnamese dessert is transformed into a refined delicacy fit for Chinese imperial palates. The fillings may include traditional Chinese ingredients such as red bean paste, black sesame paste, or crushed peanuts. The ginger-infused soup is a distinct feature of Chinese cuisine, adding a unique flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Chè trôi nước, so you can check it out.

• Glutinous rice flour: 2 cups (250g) Glutinous rice flour: 2 cups (250g)
• Water: 1 cup (240ml) Water: 1 cup (240ml)
• Sweet fillings (red bean paste, black sesame paste, crushed peanuts): as desired Sweet fillings (red bean paste, black sesame paste, crushed peanuts): as desired
• Ginger: 2-inch piece, sliced Ginger: 2-inch piece, sliced
• Water: 6 cups (1.4L) Water: 6 cups (1.4L)
• Rock sugar: 1 cup (200g) Rock sugar: 1 cup (200g)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 82g, 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.01g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each portion with your palm.
3. 3.
   Place a teaspoon of the desired sweet filling in the center of each flattened dough portion.
4. 4.
   Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it completely. Roll it into a smooth ball.
5. 5.
   In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the ginger slices and simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the water with ginger flavor.
6. 6.
   Remove the ginger slices and add rock sugar to the pot. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
7. 7.
   Carefully drop the glutinous rice balls into the boiling water. Cook until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through (approximately 5-7 minutes).
8. 8.
   Serve the glutinous rice balls in bowls, ladling the sweet ginger soup over them.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Ensure you are using glutinous rice flour specifically made for making rice balls. Regular rice flour will not yield the desired texture.
• Sweet fillings — Experiment with different fillings such as red bean paste, black sesame paste, or crushed peanuts to discover your favorite flavor combination.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the glutinous rice balls from sticking together, lightly coat them with a thin layer of oil after shaping.
• Adjust the sweetness of the ginger soup by adding more or less rock sugar according to your preference.
• For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the dessert with a sprinkle of edible flower petals.

Serving advice

Serve Chinese Imperial Glutinous Rice Balls in Sweet Ginger Soup hot as a comforting dessert. Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and flavors with each spoonful.

Presentation advice

Present the dish in individual bowls, showcasing the vibrant colors of the glutinous rice balls submerged in the golden ginger-infused soup. Add a small ginger slice as a garnish for an elegant touch.