Lotus Leaf Rice Roll

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll Recipe - Vegetarian Food from China

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll is a traditional Chinese dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The combination of sticky rice, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots wrapped in a fragrant lotus leaf creates a unique and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll has a long history in Chinese cuisine and is often served during special occasions such as weddings and festivals. The dish is believed to have originated in the Guangdong province of China and has since become popular throughout the country and beyond.

Ingredients

Lotus Leaf Recipe

3 whole rehydrated lotus leaves
12 fresh or dried shiitake mushrooms
1.5 cups of raw glutinous (sticky) rice
2 cups of sliced bamboo shoots
1.67 cups of warm water
1 tbsp of low-sodium soy sauce
2 tsp of salt
1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

1. Soak lotus leaves in water for 20 minutes. If using dried shiitake mushrooms, soak them in boiling water for 30 minutes to reconstitute, then cut into thin strips when soft. Alternatively, wash fresh shiitake mushrooms and cut into thin strips.
2. Rinse rice in warm water in a large bowl 3 or 4 times, or until the water runs clear. Steam the rice until tender, for about 30 minutes.
3. Thoroughly mix mushrooms, bamboo shoots, 4.0 cups of water, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper into the rice. Add sesame oil to the mixture, but do not stir as the oil will permeate the mixture.
4. Meanwhile, use a clean dishcloth or paper towel to wipe off the soaked lotus leaves. Cut each leaf into 4 small pieces and place them flat on a work surface.
5. Divide the cooked rice mixture into 12 equal portions. Make rolls by placing the rice mixture on one end of a leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, tucking the leaf in tightly and rolling carefully. Tuck the ends underneath.
6. Place the rolls in a steamer and steam for 10 minutes, or until heated through. Remove from the steamer and serve.

Variations

Add diced chicken or pork to the filling for added protein.
Substitute the bamboo shoots with water chestnuts for a crunchy texture.
Drizzle a bit of oyster sauce over the rolls before serving for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the lotus leaves and mushrooms before using them in the recipe will help to soften them and enhance their flavors.

- Steaming the rice until tender is crucial to ensure that the rice rolls have the perfect texture.

- When making the rolls, be sure to tuck the ends underneath to prevent the filling from spilling out during steaming.

Serving Suggestions

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll can be served as a main dish or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming is the preferred cooking technique for Lotus Leaf Rice Roll as it helps to infuse the flavors of the lotus leaf into the dish. Steaming also ensures that the rice rolls are cooked evenly and retain their moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are unable to find lotus leaves, you can use banana leaves or parchment paper as a substitute. Additionally, you can use regular white rice instead of sticky rice if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to steam. Simply wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before steaming.

Presentation Ideas

To enhance the presentation of Lotus Leaf Rice Roll, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving. You can also serve the rolls on a bed of lettuce for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll pairs well with a variety of dishes, including stir-fried vegetables, steamed fish, or a light soup. For a complete meal, serve the rice rolls alongside a side of steamed rice or noodles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Lotus Leaf Rice Roll can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam the rolls for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the rolls to become soggy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lotus Leaf Rice Roll contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the sticky rice and bamboo shoots. Carbohydrates provide energy to the body and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

The fats in Lotus Leaf Rice Roll come primarily from the sesame oil used in the recipe. Sesame oil is a healthy fat that is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health.

Proteins

The protein content in Lotus Leaf Rice Roll comes from the mushrooms and bamboo shoots. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is important for overall growth and development.

Vitamins and minerals

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients are important for various bodily functions, including immune support and heart health.

Alergens

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll contains soy sauce, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming this dish.

Summary

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a well-rounded meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Lotus Leaf Rice Roll is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its unique combination of sticky rice, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots wrapped in fragrant lotus leaves, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this traditional Chinese recipe as a main dish or as part of a larger meal for a truly satisfying dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Lotus Leaf Rice Roll. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside. My neighbor, Mrs. Chang, was known for her amazing culinary skills and generous spirit. She would often cook up delicious meals and share them with the whole village.

One day, Mrs. Chang invited me over to her house to learn how to make Lotus Leaf Rice Roll. I was thrilled at the opportunity to learn from her and eagerly accepted her invitation. As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of fragrant rice and savory fillings filled the air. Mrs. Chang greeted me with a warm smile and began to show me how to make this traditional dish.

First, she explained to me the importance of using high-quality ingredients. She showed me how to select the best lotus leaves, which are crucial for giving the dish its unique flavor. Then she taught me how to prepare the rice, soaking it in water and then steaming it until it was perfectly cooked. As the rice steamed, Mrs. Chang prepared the fillings – a delicious mixture of savory meats, vegetables, and seasonings.

Mrs. Chang carefully placed the lotus leaves on the table and began assembling the rolls. She spooned a generous portion of the rice onto each leaf, followed by a layer of the flavorful filling. With expert hands, she folded the leaves around the rice and filling, creating a neat package that would be steamed to perfection.

As the rolls steamed, Mrs. Chang shared stories of how she learned to make this dish from her own grandmother. She told me about the traditions and customs surrounding Lotus Leaf Rice Roll, and how it was often served at special occasions and family gatherings. I listened intently, absorbing every bit of knowledge she shared with me.

Finally, the rolls were ready. Mrs. Chang carefully removed them from the steamer and placed them on a platter. The aroma that wafted up from the dish was intoxicating – a tantalizing blend of lotus leaf, rice, and savory fillings. I couldn't wait to taste them.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to another world. The flavors of the lotus leaf, rice, and fillings melded together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was truly unforgettable. Mrs. Chang smiled at me, pleased to see how much I enjoyed the Lotus Leaf Rice Roll.

From that day on, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire. I practiced making Lotus Leaf Rice Roll over and over again, perfecting my technique and adding my own twists to the traditional recipe. I shared the dish with my own family and friends, passing on the knowledge and tradition that Mrs. Chang had so generously shared with me.

Now, whenever I make Lotus Leaf Rice Roll, I think of Mrs. Chang and the day she taught me how to create this delicious dish. Her legacy lives on in every bite of the savory rolls, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And as I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I know that I am honoring Mrs. Chang and the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.