Shanxi-style Mini Rice Balls

Ingredients

While the original Timbits are sweet and made with doughnut batter, Shanxi-style mini rice balls are savory and made with glutinous rice flour. The filling of the rice balls also differs, with ingredients like minced pork, scallions, and mushrooms, which are commonly used in Shanxi cuisine. Additionally, the cooking method is steaming instead of deep-frying, giving the rice balls a softer texture. We alse have the original recipe for Timbits, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (300g) glutinous rice flour 2 cups (300g) glutinous rice flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 cup minced pork 1/2 cup minced pork
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the minced pork, chopped scallions, chopped mushrooms, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the rice dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the pork filling in the center and seal the dough, shaping it into a small ball.
4. 4.
   Repeat the process until all the dough and filling are used.
5. 5.
   Place the rice balls in a steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice balls are cooked through and tender.
6. 6.
   Serve the Shanxi-style mini rice balls hot as a snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as it gives the rice balls their characteristic chewy texture.
• Minced pork — Choose lean minced pork for a healthier option, or substitute with minced chicken or beef if desired.
• Mushrooms — Use fresh mushrooms such as shiitake or button mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the rice balls from sticking to each other, lightly coat them with a small amount of oil after steaming.
• Experiment with different fillings such as shrimp, vegetables, or even cheese to create your own variations.
• Serve the rice balls with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil for an extra kick of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Shanxi-style mini rice balls as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the mini rice balls on a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.