Spice and Recipe S1E10: Goji Berry and Fermented Rice Balls | China

glutinous rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: regular rice

Quinoa is a healthier grain option, while regular rice is more economical.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: regular milk

Almond milk is lower in calories, and regular milk is often less expensive.

sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: honey

Stevia is a natural sweetener with fewer calories, while honey is a common sweetener.

red bean paste

🥗Healthier: black bean puree

💰Cheaper: peanut butter

Black bean puree is lower in sugar, and peanut butter is more affordable.

Soak glutinous rice in water for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Drain the soaked rice and steam it for 30-40 minutes until fully cooked and sticky.

Allow the rice to cool slightly before transferring it to a mixing bowl.

Add sugar, salt, and yeast to the warm rice, mixing well to combine.

In a separate bowl, soak goji berries in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.

Gently fold in the goji berries into the rice mixture.

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours, until slightly bubbly.

Once fermented, shape the mixture into small balls or dumplings, about the size of a golf ball.

Roll the rice balls in cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Steam the rice balls for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Let cool slightly before serving with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens