Date: 01/11/2025 01/12/2025
Location: Star River Meditation Center
Teacher: Yunquan Huang
Weekly Buddhist Cuisine Menu
Sweet Red Bean Glutinous Rice Balls
Summary:
This is a soft, chewy, and mildly sweet traditional vegan dessert where glutinous rice dough encases a smooth red bean paste filling, making it a perfect snack or festive treat.
Ingredients:
Glutinous Rice Dough:
Glutinous rice flour 200g
Warm water 160ml (added gradually)
Granulated sugar 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra sweetness)
Red Bean Paste Filling:
Red beans 100g (soaked for 6 hours or overnight)
Water 400ml (for boiling)
Brown sugar or white sugar 2 tablespoons
Vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (optional, for a smoother texture)
Optional Toppings:
Toasted white sesame seeds (for aroma)
Shredded coconut (for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Red Bean Paste:
Rinse and soak the red beans for at least 6 hours or overnight to soften them.
Drain and place the beans in a pot with 400ml of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 40-50 minutes until the beans become very soft.
Drain excess water, then mash the beans into a smooth paste. Stir in sugar and cook on low heat while stirring continuously. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil for a smoother texture (optional).
Cook until the paste thickens and holds its shape. Let it cool before use.
2. Make the Glutinous Rice Dough:
In a large bowl, mix glutinous rice flour with granulated sugar (if using). Gradually add warm water while stirring until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough until smooth and non-sticky, then cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 10 minutes.
3. Shape the Rice Balls:
Take a small portion of dough and roll it into a ball, then flatten it into a disk.
Place a small amount of red bean paste in the center, then carefully wrap and seal the dough around it, rolling it into a smooth ball.
Optionally, roll the rice balls in toasted sesame seeds or shredded coconut for extra flavor.
4. Steam the Rice Balls:
Bring a steamer pot to a boil. Place the rice balls in the steamer, cover, and steam for 12-15 minutes until they turn translucent and shiny.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the rice balls cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm for a soft, chewy texture or at room temperature for a firmer bite.
