02/15/2010 - Chinese New Year Snack "nian guo"

Recipe:

- 1 package glutenous rice flour

- 1 cup water

- 2 1/2 bars Asian brown sugar

- 3 tsp veggie oil

- sesame seeds (optional)

(1) boil the water

(2) break up the brown sugar and melt in the boiling water => cool completely

(3) Mix the brown sugar water with the flour => add 1/3 - 1/2 cup cold water => knead till glossy and dough is moist

(4) grease dish with 2tsp veggie oil => pour in batter => decorate batter w. sesame seeds => top w. remainder veggie oil

(5) Steam on med-high for 40 min

(6) Let cool at room temp. for 8-24 hours

(7) Refrigerate 8-24 hours

* traditionally, you're supposed to decorate with a red dates but I didn't have any on hand and it's an extra step ...

To Serve:

Cut into slices => dip in beaten egg mixture (1 or 2 eggs will suffice) => pan fry on med-low heat with a little oil until soft or until it has enough color.

The Verdict:

Very yummy. Not too sweet - a little on the gooey side, but I don't mind. I think it's best eaten warm but it's ok at room temp.