Name: Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice
Prep time: 4 h 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 5 h 10 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 cups glutinous rice; 4-5 dried shiitake mushrooms; 2 Chinese sausages (lap cheong), diced; 100g shrimp, peeled and chopped (optional); 3 scallions, sliced thinly; 2 tablespoons cooking oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine; 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

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If you’ve ever craved a deeply comforting dish that bursts with authentic flavor, this Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice recipe is your new go-to. It masterfully blends fragrant sticky rice with a medley of delicious fillings, creating a warm, satisfying bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Chinese cuisine or looking to perfect a classic, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that’ll keep you coming back for more.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic taste: Experience the genuine flavors of traditional Chinese kitchen magic in every bite.
Comfort in a bite: The sticky texture paired with savory fillings creates a soul-soothing meal.
Versatile and easy: Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this recipe great for busy days or leisurely weekends.
Kid and crowd-pleaser: The mild yet rich flavor profile appeals almost universally, perfect for family gatherings or lunchboxes.
Customizable fillings: You can easily adapt the fillings to suit dietary needs or pantry availability.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to unlocking the magic of Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice. Each component contributes distinct notes in texture, aroma, and flavor, combining to build a dish that’s truly unforgettable.

Glutinous rice: The base ingredient, offering that signature sticky texture essential to this dish.
Dried shiitake mushrooms: Provide umami depth and earthy undertones when rehydrated and diced.
Chinese sausage (lap cheong): Adds a sweet and savory punch with rich texture.
Shrimp (optional): Gives a subtle seafood sweetness and bite for extra flavor complexity.
Scallions: Bring fresh, mild onion notes to brighten the overall taste.
Soy sauce: Works as the salty backbone, balancing sweetness and savoriness.
Oyster sauce: Enhances umami for that deep, irresistible flavor boost.
Shaoxing wine: Adds fragrant, aromatic nuances typical of Chinese cooking.
White pepper: Provides gentle heat without overpowering the palate.
Cooking oil: For sautéing and ensuring a nicely seared finish on ingredients.

Variations for Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice

One of the wonderful things about this Chinese savoury sticky rice recipe is how easy it is to adapt according to what you have on hand, your preferences, or dietary choices. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it truly yours!

Vegetarian version: Swap sausage and shrimp for extra mushrooms, diced carrots, and firm tofu.
Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a fiery kick.
Healthy swap: Incorporate brown sticky rice or add steamed green peas for extra fiber and color.
Seafood lovers: Use scallops or shredded crab meat in place of shrimp.
Nutty crunch: Toasted peanuts or cashews sprinkled on top add texture and flavor depth.

Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice Recipe with Delicious Fillings

How to Make Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice

Step 1: Soak the Rice and Mushrooms

Begin by rinsing 2 cups of glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then soak it in cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Simultaneously, soak dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water until soft, about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Fillings

Drain and finely chop the soaked mushrooms, dice the Chinese sausage, and peel and chop shrimp if using. Also, slice scallions thinly for freshness.

Step 3: Cook the Fillings

Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan, then sauté sausage until rendered and slightly crispy. Add mushrooms and shrimp, cooking just until shrimp turn opaque. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, and white pepper, cooking for another minute to combine flavors.

Step 4: Steam the Rice

Drain the soaked rice and transfer it to a steaming basket or a heatproof bowl set over boiling water. Steam the rice for about 20-25 minutes until translucent and tender, stirring halfway to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Combine Rice and Fillings

Fold the cooked filling mixture gently through the steamed rice, adding the scallions last. Adjust seasoning with extra soy or white pepper if desired. Steam combined rice and filling for an additional 5 minutes for flavors to meld completely.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Transfer the Chinese savoury sticky rice to a serving dish, garnish as desired, and enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice

Rinse rice thoroughly: This removes excess starch for a perfect sticky yet fluffy texture.
Soak rice and mushrooms: Essential for softening and optimal cooking results.
Use a tight lid during steaming: Keeps moisture locked in so the rice cooks evenly.
Balance your seasoning: Taste the filling before mixing with rice and adjust soy and oyster sauce as needed.
Fresh scallions last: Adding them at the end preserves their bright flavor and crunch.
Don’t skip Shaoxing wine: Its aromatic depth really elevates the dish.

How to Serve Chinese Savoury Sticky Rice

Garnishes

Freshly chopped scallions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or finely minced chili peppers add vibrant color and fresh bursts of flavor to complement the sticky rice. A drizzle of soy sauce or chili oil can also enhance the taste.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with crisp stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or gai lan, a bowl of hot miso soup for a comforting contrast, or pickled vegetables that offer a tangy balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Chinese savoury sticky rice in small lotus leaf parcels for an elegant touch, or press it into individual ramekins to create tidy portions. Garnish with edible flowers or fresh herbs for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy appearance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Chinese savoury sticky rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice might firm up but retains flavor beautifully.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying out the rice.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice?

Regular rice won’t provide the same sticky texture that defines this dish, so glutinous rice is essential for authentic results.

Is Chinese savoury sticky rice gluten-free?

While glutinous rice itself is gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce if you have sensitivities.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute Chinese sausage and shrimp with mushrooms, tofu, or other plant-based options, and use vegan-friendly sauces.

How long does it take to make Chinese savoury sticky rice from start to finish?

Including soaking time, plan for about 5 to 6 hours, but active cooking and assembly take around 1 hour.

Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?

Absolutely, prepare the rice and fillings separately in advance and combine them right before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese savoury sticky rice recipe is a true celebration of flavor and comfort, perfect for savoring during cozy meals or sharing with loved ones. Its irresistible aroma and customizable fillings allow you to craft a dish that feels like a warm embrace in every bite. Give it a try and let this savory delight become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!