lotus fragrant glutinous rice chicken

How to Make Fragrant Lotus Leaf Rice Chicken

Fragrant lotus leaf rice chicken, a classic dim sum delight, combines glutinous rice, savory chicken, and aromatic lotus leaves for a unique flavor. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Ingredients: Glutinous rice (soaked for 2 hours), chicken thigh (diced), dried shiitake mushrooms (rehydrated and chopped), dried shrimp (soaked), lotus leaves (softened in hot water), soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and five-spice powder.

Steps:

1. Prepare the filling: Sauté diced chicken until golden. Add mushrooms, shrimp, and stir-fry until fragrant. Mix in soaked glutinous rice, season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and five-spice powder. Stir well.

2. Wrap the rice: Place a softened lotus leaf on a flat surface, scoop a portion of the rice mixture onto the center, fold the leaf into a rectangular parcel, and secure with kitchen twine.

3. Steam: Arrange parcels in a steamer, steam over high heat for 1.5–2 hours until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Tips: Soaking the rice ensures even cooking; using fresh lotus leaves enhances aroma. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy this savory, aromatic treat that captures the essence of traditional Cantonese cuisine!