16 Chinese Rice Cake Recipe Hawaii Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
When it comes to traditional Hawaiian cuisine, one dish that stands out is the Chinese rice cake or "nian gao". This sweet and chewy treat is a beloved staple in Hawaii, often served during special occasions such as Chinese New Year and weddings. With its unique blend of Chinese and Hawaiian flavors, the Chinese rice cake has become a must-try for locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of Chinese rice cake in Hawaii and share a delicious recipe for you to try at home.
Spice up your dinner routine with this delicious Chinese Rice Cake Soup. Tender pieces of chicken and flavorful rice cakes are simmered in a savory broth, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for chilly nights or when you're craving a taste of Chinese cuisine.
Put a twist on the traditional chicken salad with this Chinese-inspired recipe. Tender chunks of chicken are mixed with crunchy veggies and tossed in a flavorful dressing, creating a refreshing and healthy dish. Serve it as a light lunch or as a side dish at your next barbecue.
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Steak and Scallion Rice Cake Stir-Fry
Main Ingredients: Sirloin Steak, Oil, Cornstarch, Light Soy Sauce
This steak and scallion rice cake stir-fry is a hearty and flavorful meal that is sure to please. Thin slices of tender steak are combined with crisp scallions and chewy rice cakes, all tossed in a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or for impressing guests at a dinner party.
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Slow-cooked Pork Rib and Rice Cake
Main Ingredients: Pork Short Ribs, Oil, Soy Sauce, Dark Soy Sauce, Sugar
For a meal that's bursting with flavor, try this slow-cooked pork rib and rice cake recipe. The tender pork ribs are cooked low and slow until they fall off the bone, and the chewy rice cakes absorb all the delicious juices. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for feeding a crowd.
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Rice Cake Stir Fry (炒年糕, Chao Nian Gao)
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Shaoxing Wine, Salt, Cornstarch, Oyster
If you're looking for a simple and satisfying meal, look no further than this rice cake stir fry. Tender rice cakes are stir-fried with your choice of protein and vegetables, creating a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish at your next Asian-inspired feast.
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Stir-Fried Sticky Rice Cakes (Nian Gao)
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Cornstarch, Soy Sauce, Oil, Rice Cakes
Sticky rice cakes, also known as nian gao, are a popular Chinese snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. This recipe takes the chewy cakes and stir-fries them with a combination of veggies, meat, and a savory sauce. The result is a delicious and filling meal that's perfect for any occasion.
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VEGETARIAN SHANGHAI RICE CAKES
Main Ingredients: Rice Cakes, Baby Bok Choy, Napa Cabbage, Garlic
If you're a vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this vegetarian Shanghai rice cake recipe is a must-try. Flavorful veggies and tofu are stir-fried with chewy rice cakes, creating a dish that's both healthy and satisfying. Feel free to customize the veggies to your liking and top it off with your favorite sauce.
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Spicy Stir-fried Rice Cakes
Main Ingredients: Oil, Pork Belly, Ginger, Garlic, Medium Onion, Jalapeno
For those who love a little heat, this spicy stir-fried rice cake recipe is a must-try. Chewy rice cakes are combined with spicy chili paste, veggies, and your choice of protein, creating a fiery and flavorful dish. Serve it with a side of steamed rice to balance out the heat, or dig in and embrace the spice.
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Braised Rice Cakes with Napa Cabbage + Shiitake + Pork
Main Ingredients: Shiitake Mushrooms, Rice Cake, Pork Tenderloin, Napa
This braised rice cake dish is a classic Chinese recipe that is packed with flavor. Tender chunks of pork are braised with napa cabbage and shiitake mushrooms, creating a rich and savory sauce that coats the chewy rice cakes. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or for a special occasion.
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Stir-Fried Rice Cakes with Pork
Main Ingredients: Dried Shiitake Mushrooms, Pork Butt, Rice Cakes
This stir-fried rice cake recipe is a quick and easy dish that can be whipped up in no time. Tender pieces of pork are stir-fried with chewy rice cakes and a variety of veggies, creating a colorful and flavorful meal. Serve it with a side of steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Easy Stir-Fried Rice Cakes with XO Sauce
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Shallot, Garlic Cloves, Fresh Ginger
XO sauce is a popular Chinese sauce made with dried seafood, chili peppers, and other flavorful ingredients. In this recipe, it adds a punch of flavor to the stir-fried rice cakes, creating a dish that's bursting with umami. This recipe is perfect for when you're craving something bold and delicious.
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“Ikameshi” - Rice with Squid #IzakayaNobu
Main Ingredients: Squid, Rice Cake, Rice, Green Onions, Ginger, Soy
This "ikameshi" recipe is a Japanese twist on traditional rice cakes. Tender squid is stuffed inside rice cakes and simmered in a savory broth, creating a unique and delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or when you're in the mood for something a little different.
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Molly Kuslikis
Main Ingredients: Rice, Pumpkin Seeds, Vegan Chocolate Chips, Raisins
Molly Kuslikis is a food blogger who specializes in Asian cuisine, including rice cake dishes. Her recipes are easy to follow and always turn out delicious. Be sure to check out her blog for more tasty and creative rice cake recipes.
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Easy Chinese Stir-fried Nian Gao Rice Cakes
Main Ingredients: Korean Rice Cake, Cooking Oil, Garlic, Boneless Chicken
If you're short on time but still craving the delicious flavors of Chinese cuisine, this easy stir-fried nian gao rice cake recipe is for you. The chewy rice cakes are stir-fried with your choice of protein and veggies, creating a quick and satisfying meal that can be on the table in no time.
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Salmon Fried Rice Cake (Chao Nian Gao)
Main Ingredients: Sockeye Salmon, Korean Rice Cakes, Vegetable Oil
For a twist on the classic fried rice, try this salmon fried rice cake recipe. Tender pieces of salmon are stir-fried with chewy rice cakes and a variety of veggies, creating a colorful and flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and those looking to switch up their fried rice game.
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Instant Pot Tteok Guk (Rice Cake Soup)
Main Ingredients: Tteok, Beef Stew Meat, Water, Sesame Oil, Onion
This Instant Pot tteok guk recipe is a Korean-style rice cake soup that's perfect for a cozy night in. The tender rice cakes are simmered in a savory broth with beef, veggies, and spices, creating a hearty and comforting soup. This recipe is perfect for chilly nights or when you're feeling under the weather.
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The Original Tteokbokki
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Sugar, Gochugaru, Gochujang, Rice Syrup
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes and a spicy sauce. This recipe is for the original version, featuring a savory and spicy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Make it at home and impress your friends with this delicious and authentic Korean dish.
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Eggs Benedict, Lox with Curried Scallion and Rice Cakes
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Jasmine, Egg, Bread Crumbs, Curry Powder
This creative spin on the classic eggs benedict features lox and curried scallions on top of crispy rice cakes. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a mouthwatering breakfast or brunch dish that will impress even the pickiest of eaters. Give it a try and enjoy a unique twist on a breakfast favorite.
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Korean Braised Short Rib Stew
Main Ingredients: Beef Short Ribs, Soy Sauce, Sugar, Sake, Seasoned Salt
This Korean braised short rib stew is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for a cold winter night. The tender short ribs are simmered in a savory broth with rice cakes, veggies, and spices, creating a rich and satisfying stew. Serve it with a side of steamed rice for a complete and comforting meal.
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Dak Galbi (Stir-fried Spicy Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Green Cabbage, Sweet Potato, Rice
Dak galbi is a popular Korean dish that features marinated chicken stir-fried with a spicy sauce. In this recipe, the chicken is paired with chewy rice cakes and a variety of veggies, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their food.
The History of Chinese Rice Cake in Hawaii
The Chinese rice cake, also known as "mochi" in Japan, has a long history in Hawaii. It is believed that Chinese immigrants brought this dish to the islands in the late 1800s. However, the original Chinese rice cake was made with glutinous rice flour and was much thinner and drier in texture. Over time, the recipe evolved to include local ingredients such as coconut milk and taro, giving it a more Hawaiian touch.
A Beloved Hawaiian Treat
Today, Chinese rice cake is a beloved treat in Hawaii. It is traditionally served during Chinese New Year as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. It is also a popular dessert at weddings, where it is served as a symbol of the couple's long-lasting love and happiness. Many families have their own special recipe for Chinese rice cake, passed down from generation to generation.
The Perfect Blend of Chinese and Hawaiian Flavors
One of the reasons why Chinese rice cake has become so popular in Hawaii is its unique blend of Chinese and Hawaiian flavors. The use of coconut milk and taro adds a tropical twist to the traditional Chinese recipe, giving it a richer and creamier texture. The addition of local ingredients also adds a touch of Hawaii's diverse cultural influence to the dish, making it a true fusion of flavors.
How to Make Chinese Rice Cake
Now that you know a bit about the history and popularity of Chinese rice cake in Hawaii, it's time to try making it yourself! Here is a simple recipe that you can follow to create your own delicious Chinese rice cake:
Ingredients:
2 cups glutinous rice flour
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup taro, mashed
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, mashed taro, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Grease a 9-inch round pan with vegetable oil and pour the mixture into it.
Steam the rice cake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the rice cake cool before slicing and serving.
Enjoying Chinese Rice Cake in Hawaii
Now that you have your own homemade Chinese rice cake, you can enjoy this sweet treat anytime you want. Whether it's for a special occasion or just for a delicious dessert, this Hawaiian twist on a traditional Chinese dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
In conclusion, Chinese rice cake has a long and rich history in Hawaii and has become a beloved treat for locals and tourists alike. Its unique blend of Chinese and Hawaiian flavors makes it a must-try dish for anyone visiting the islands. So why not try making your own Chinese rice cake at home and experience a little taste of Hawaii?