Rice-studded Meatballs

Rice-studded Meatballs Recipe from China | White Rice, Pork, Water Chestnuts, and More

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice-studded meatballs are a delicious and unique dish that combines the flavors of tender meatballs with the texture of rice. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its creative presentation and savory taste.

History

The origins of rice-studded meatballs can be traced back to traditional Chinese cuisine. This dish is often served as a dim sum appetizer or as part of a larger meal. The combination of meat and rice symbolizes prosperity and abundance in Chinese culture.

Ingredients

1 cup of long-grain white rice
2 to 4 outer leaves of iceberg or romaine lettuce
1 lb (454 g) of ground pork or veal or meatloaf mix
1 tbsp of chinese rice wine (preferably Shaoxing) or medium-dry sherry
1 bunch of scallions (white and pale green parts only), minced (0.33 cup)
0.5 cup of canned water chestnuts, diced (0.25 inch), rinsed and drained
1 tbsp of cornstarch
1 tbsp of lightly beaten egg white
1 tsp of sugar
0.5 tsp of Asian sesame oil
1 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of white pepper

How to prepare

While waiting to prepare the meat, soak the rice in hot water.
Place a steamer rack inside a skillet and fill the bottom with water until it almost touches the rack. Line the rack with lettuce.
Mix all the ingredients, excluding the rice, together. Drain the rice and place it in a small open-faced bowl.
Form the meat mixture into small balls and roll them in the rice bowl to cover them in rice.
Steam the balls in the skillet for approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

Substitute ground chicken or pork for the veal in the meat mixture.
Add diced vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the rice in hot water before using it helps to soften the grains and make them stick to the meatballs better.

- Steaming the meatballs on a bed of lettuce adds moisture and flavor to the dish.

- Be sure to mix the meat mixture thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

- Rolling the meatballs in rice before steaming them creates a unique and visually appealing presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Rice-studded meatballs can be served as a main course with steamed vegetables or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the meatballs ensures that they are cooked through evenly and retain their moisture. This gentle cooking method also helps to preserve the flavors of the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sherry on hand, you can substitute with rice wine or dry white wine. You can also use ground beef or turkey instead of veal in the meat mixture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meat mixture and form the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to steam them. This makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the rice-studded meatballs on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or sliced green onions for a beautiful presentation. Serve them with a side of dipping sauce for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Rice-studded meatballs pair well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad. They also go well with a side of hot and sour soup or wonton soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover rice-studded meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam the meatballs again until heated through or microwave them for a quick meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of rice-studded meatballs contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of rice-studded meatballs contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of rice-studded meatballs contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of rice-studded meatballs contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice-studded meatballs are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and soy (from the Asian sesame oil), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Rice-studded meatballs are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a main course.

Summary

Rice-studded meatballs are a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a unique combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. The combination of savory meatballs with the added texture and flavor of rice sounded absolutely divine. I had come across the recipe in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the delicious dish already.

I had always been passionate about cooking, and over the years I had acquired quite the collection of recipes. Some were handed down from generation to generation in my family, while others I had picked up from various cookbooks, cooking shows, and even friends. But there was something about this particular recipe that spoke to me on a deeper level.

I remembered the first time I made rice-studded meatballs. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I had the whole day to myself. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. As I mixed the ground meat with the cooked rice, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building within me.

I formed the mixture into small meatballs and placed them on a baking sheet. As they baked in the oven, the aroma that filled my kitchen was absolutely tantalizing. I couldn't wait to try the finished dish.

When the meatballs were golden brown and cooked through, I served them over a bed of fluffy white rice and drizzled them with a rich tomato sauce. The first bite was pure bliss. The meatballs were tender and flavorful, and the rice added a wonderful contrast in texture. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made rice-studded meatballs countless times. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. But no matter how many times I make it, the dish never fails to bring a smile to my face and warmth to my belly.

One of the most memorable times I made rice-studded meatballs was for my daughter's birthday party. She had requested a "fancy" dinner, and I knew immediately that these meatballs would be the perfect main course. I spent the entire day in the kitchen, preparing a feast fit for a princess.

When the time came to serve the meal, my daughter's face lit up with joy as she took her first bite of the rice-studded meatballs. She declared them to be the best meatballs she had ever tasted, and my heart swelled with pride.

As the years have passed, I have shared this recipe with friends and family members who have all fallen in love with it just as I have. It has become a beloved dish in our household, a recipe that will undoubtedly be passed down to future generations.

I often think back to that rainy Sunday afternoon when I first made rice-studded meatballs. It was a turning point in my culinary journey, a moment when I discovered a recipe that truly resonated with me. And as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I am grateful for the joy and satisfaction that this dish brings me time and time again. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also about feeding the soul. And for me, rice-studded meatballs will always hold a special place in my heart.