Moonlit Lotus Leaf Rice (月光荷叶饭)
Moonlit Lotus Leaf Rice, or 月光荷叶饭 (Yuèguāng Héyè Fàn), is a traditional dish from Haipai Cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and beautiful presentation. This dish is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings, as it symbolizes harmony and prosperity.
Ingredients
- 2 lotus leaves, dried
- 2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 200g chicken, diced (optional for non-vegetarian version)
- 4 shiitake mushrooms, soaked and sliced
- 4 slices Chinese sausage (optional for non-vegetarian version)
- 4 water chestnuts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Soak the lotus leaves in warm water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the rice, mixed vegetables, chicken (if using), mushrooms, Chinese sausage (if using), and water chestnuts.
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Pour this mixture over the rice and mix well.
- Place a portion of the rice mixture onto each lotus leaf, then fold the leaves to form packets.
- Place the lotus leaf packets in a steamer and steam for 45 minutes.
- Once cooked, carefully open the lotus leaf packets and transfer the rice to a serving plate.
- Heat the chicken or vegetable broth and pour it over the rice before serving.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 30 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 45 minutes
- Total time:
- 1 hour
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 300 per serving
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Protein
- 10g
- Fat
- 8g
Supplies
Steaming basket Steamer
Tools
Knife Bowl Small bowl
Serving suggestions
Serve the Moonlit Lotus Leaf Rice with a side of stir-fried vegetables and a pot of fragrant Chinese tea for a complete Haipai dining experience.
Tips & tricks
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and Chinese sausage, and increase the amount of mixed vegetables for a colorful and flavorful alternative.
Cost
$15