Hanami Dango with a Twist

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) glutinous rice flour 1 cup (200g) glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon rose extract 1/2 teaspoon rose extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• Cornstarch, for dusting Cornstarch, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the mixture while stirring continuously until a smooth dough forms.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into three equal portions.
4. 4.
   In one portion, add the rose extract and knead until the dough turns pink.
5. 5.
   In another portion, add the vanilla extract and knead until the dough becomes white.
6. 6.
   In the remaining portion, add the matcha powder and knead until the dough turns green.
7. 7.
   Dust your hands and work surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
8. 8.
   Take a small piece from each colored dough and roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
9. 9.
   Repeat until all the dough is used.
10. 10.
    Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the dumplings in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
11. 11.
    Remove the dumplings from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate.
12. 12.
    Allow the dumplings to cool before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as it gives the dumplings their characteristic chewy texture.
• Rose extract — Adjust the amount of rose extract according to your preference for the intensity of the flavor.
• Matcha powder — Use high-quality matcha powder for a vibrant green color and rich flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the dough from sticking to your hands, dust them with cornstarch before shaping the dumplings.
• If the dough becomes too sticky, add a little more glutinous rice flour.
• Serve the Hanami Dango with a dusting of matcha powder or edible rose petals for an elegant presentation.
• These dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Experiment with different flavors and colors by using other natural extracts or food coloring.

Serving advice

Serve the Hanami Dango as a delightful dessert or snack during cherry blossom season. Arrange them on a plate or skewer them on bamboo sticks for an authentic touch. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of green tea.

Presentation advice

Present the Hanami Dango on a beautiful plate or wooden tray, garnished with edible rose petals or a sprinkle of matcha powder. Arrange them in a visually appealing pattern, showcasing the vibrant colors of the dumplings.