🥣 【Ingredients】
Glutinous rice: 2 bowls (soaked for at least 4 hours in advance)
Soulmate: Red bean paste (the more, the better!), lard/vegetable oil, sugar
“Eight Treasure” toppings: Red dates, lotus seeds, goji berries, raisins, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, candied fruits, dried longan (feel free to mix and match according to preference)
🔥 【Tips for Soft, Sticky, and Flavorful Rice】
1️⃣ Lard is the secret: While the steamed glutinous rice is still hot, be sure to mix in lard and sugar! This is key to achieving that glossy, smooth texture in eight-treasure rice—it’s absolutely essential.
2️⃣ Grease the bottom of the bowl: When shaping the dish, make sure to grease the bottom of the bowl thoroughly. This ensures that when you flip it out, it comes out perfectly intact, shiny, and without sticking.
3️⃣ “Sandwich” layering: Arrange the dried fruits at the bottom, layer with rice, add a thick layer of red bean paste in the middle, and finally seal it with more rice, pressing it down firmly. This way, when you scoop it out, there’s a delightful burst of filling!
✨ 【Step-by-Step】
Steam the rice: After soaking, steam the glutinous rice until cooked. While it’s still hot, mix in lard and sugar.
Arrange the toppings: Take a round bowl and grease the bottom with oil. Use the dried fruits to create a beautiful pattern.
Layer the fillings: Add a layer of rice and press it down firmly. Create a well in the center, fill it with red bean paste, and cover with the remaining rice, pressing it down evenly.
Steam again: Place the bowl in a steamer and steam over high heat for another 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors of the dried fruits and red bean paste to fully infuse into the rice.
Flip and serve: While it’s still hot, place a large flat plate over the bowl and quickly flip it over. Done!