rice cakes

How to Make Steamed Rice Cake (Mi Fa Gao): A Simple Guide

Steamed rice cake, or *mi fa gao*, is a beloved Chinese snack known for its soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup rice flour (or all-purpose flour)

- ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1 tsp active yeast

- ½ cup warm water (≈40°C)

- 2 tbsp milk (optional, for richness)

- A pinch of salt

Steps:

1. Prepare the batter: Mix rice flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Gradually add warm water and milk, stirring until smooth. The batter should be thick but pourable, like pancake batter.

2. Ferment: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly.

3. Steam: Grease a heatproof dish. Pour the batter into the dish, filling it halfway. Steam over high heat for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

4. Serve: Let it cool slightly, then cut into squares. Enjoy plain, or top with dried fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of honey.

Tips: For a chewier texture, replace half the rice flour with glutinous rice flour. Add red bean paste or coconut flakes for extra flavor. This versatile cake is perfect for breakfast or as a dessert!