Shaanxi-style Glutinous Rice Cake

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Japanese Hishi mochi is transformed into a savory dish by incorporating the distinct flavors of Shaanxi cuisine. The original sweet and colorful Hishi mochi is replaced with a savory glutinous rice cake, and the toppings are changed to include minced meat, garlic, ginger, and Shaanxi spices. This adaptation brings together the best of both cuisines, resulting in a unique and delicious fusion dish. We alse have the original recipe for Hishi mochi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour
• 1 1/2 cups (355ml) water 1 1/2 cups (355ml) water
• 1/2 lb (225g) minced meat (pork or beef) 1/2 lb (225g) minced meat (pork or beef)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon Shaanxi spice blend (a mixture of star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, fennel seeds, and cinnamon) 1 tablespoon Shaanxi spice blend (a mixture of star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, fennel seeds, and cinnamon)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Chopped green onions, for garnish Chopped green onions, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into round cakes.
3. 3.
   Place the rice cakes in a steamer and steam for about 20 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent.
4. 4.
   While the rice cakes are steaming, heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Add the minced meat, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.
6. 6.
   Add the Shaanxi spice blend and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Remove the steamed rice cakes from the steamer and transfer them to a serving plate.
8. 8.
   Spoon the cooked meat mixture over the rice cakes.
9. 9.
   Garnish with chopped green onions.
10. 10.
    Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as it gives the rice cakes their sticky texture.
• Shaanxi spice blend — If you can't find a pre-made Shaanxi spice blend, you can make your own by combining equal parts star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, fennel seeds, and cinnamon.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavors, marinate the minced meat with a small amount of Shaanxi spice blend before cooking.
• Adjust the amount of Shaanxi spice blend according to your preference for spiciness.
• Serve the Shaanxi-style Glutinous Rice Cake with a side of chili oil for an extra kick of flavor.
• You can also add additional toppings such as sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables for added freshness and crunch.
• Leftover Shaanxi-style Glutinous Rice Cake can be refrigerated and reheated in a steamer or microwave.

Serving advice

Serve the Shaanxi-style Glutinous Rice Cake as a main dish for lunch or dinner. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Shaanxi-style Glutinous Rice Cake on a serving platter, with the savory meat mixture generously spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color. The contrast between the white rice cakes and the flavorful meat topping will make for an appetizing presentation.