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Chewy Nian Gao Sweet

Chewy Nian Gao Sweet: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Chewy Nian Gao Sweet Rice Cake Recipe with Easy Caramelized Glaze


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) glutinous rice flour
  • 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon light soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water (for caramel)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter (10 minutes): In a mixing bowl, whisk together glutinous rice flour and brown sugar. Slowly add warm water, whisking constantly until smooth and lump-free. Strain if needed.
  2. Steam the Rice Cake (30 minutes): Lightly grease a 7-inch round heatproof dish with vegetable oil. Pour in batter and smooth surface. Place in steamer basket over boiling water, cover, and steam for 30 minutes until firm but chewy.
  3. Cool and Cut (10 minutes): Remove from steamer and cool completely to room temperature. Invert onto cutting board and cut into 1-inch thick slices or rectangles.
  4. Make the Caramelized Glaze (5 minutes): In a skillet over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and water. Stir until sugar dissolves, then let bubble without stirring until deep amber color forms. Swirl pan gently.
  5. Add Flavor Boosters (Optional): Stir in white vinegar and light soy sauce quickly for balanced glaze flavor.
  6. Pan-Fry the Rice Cake (10 minutes): Add vegetable oil to caramel glaze, then add rice cake slices. Fry each side 3-4 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Flip gently with spatula.
  7. Serve Warm: Transfer to plate and drizzle remaining glaze over top. Best enjoyed warm with sticky, shiny caramel.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Steaming and Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Chewy Nian Gao, Sweet Rice Cake, Caramelized Glaze