Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight has been part of my family for as long as I can remember. Every time there’s a celebration—whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or just a weekend gathering—Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight is always on the table. I still remember standing beside my grandmother in her small kitchen as she patiently showed me how to steam the rice until it was perfectly sticky and sweet. Her gentle voice and warm hands guiding me through the recipe are memories I treasure to this day.
A Recipe That Connects Generations
Making Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight is not just about cooking; it’s about family and togetherness. My mom often says that recipes like this are bridges between generations. The key ingredients—glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar—are simple, but they come together in the most comforting way. Sometimes, we sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or drizzle caramelized syrup on top for extra flavor. Sharing this dish with loved ones reminds me of how food can bring people closer.
A Comforting Bite of Nostalgia
The first bite of Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight always takes me back to my childhood. Its warm, sticky texture combined with the rich sweetness of coconut milk feels like a hug in dessert form. It’s amazing how something so simple can carry so much love and meaning. Whether it’s served warm on a chilly evening or enjoyed cool on a summer day, this dish always feels like home.
A Dish Worth Sharing
Now, I pass on the recipe for Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight to my own kids. They love helping to stir the coconut milk or pressing the rice into a neat shape in the dish. It’s wonderful to see their excitement as they take their first bite of something they helped create. This dessert is more than just a treat—it’s a piece of family history that I’m proud to share with every new generation.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight
- Thorough Rinsing: Washing the sweet rice multiple times until the water runs clear ensures the rice cooks evenly without excess starch, resulting in a perfectly chewy texture.
- Balance Sweetness: Adjust the dark brown sugar and honey to suit your taste preference. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the quantities slightly.
- Layer the Ingredients Evenly: Distribute the dried fruits and nuts evenly across the rice for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Customize the Texture: For firmer bars, press the rice firmly into the pan and chill it in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before cutting.
- Creative Variations: Experiment with other dried fruits, such as dried mango or papaya, for a tropical twist. Adding a hint of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor profile.
- Presentation Matters: Garnishing with thinly sliced jujube dates and pine nuts enhances the visual appeal, making it ideal for festive occasions.
Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight
4
servings15
minutes40
minutes439
kcal10
minutes1
minuteDive into the delightful world of Korean desserts with this Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight! Bursting with a medley of dried fruits and crunchy nuts, this traditional sweet rice dish is perfect for any occasion. Crafted with love and simplicity, it’s a must-try for those seeking a healthy and flavorful treat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises a delicious outcome that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor the sweet symphony of flavors that make this dessert a beloved favorite in Korean cuisine!
Ingredients
- Grains and Liquids
3 cups sweet short-grain glutinous rice
2 cups water
- Nuts and Fruits
2 tablespoons pine nuts
15 chestnuts peeled and quartered
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup dried cranberries
10 dried jujube dates rinsed and halved
- Seasoning Mix
1/3 cup dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Garnish
1 tablespoon pine nuts
2-3 dried jujube dates thinly sliced
- Alternative Ingredients:
Sweet Rice: Substitute with sushi rice or Arborio rice if glutinous rice is unavailable.
Chestnuts: Use candied pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Raisins: Replace with sultanas or chopped dried apricots.
Dried Cranberries: Substitute with dried cherries or blueberries.
Dried Jujube Dates: Use dried figs or dates for a similar chewy texture.
Dark Brown Sugar: Replace with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Honey: Agave nectar can be used for a vegan substitute.
Sesame Oil: Substitute with grapeseed oil for a milder flavor.
Cinnamon Powder: Use nutmeg or allspice for a different spice note.
Directions
- Prepare Seasoning Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine dark brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, cinnamon powder, and fine sea salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated. This creates a rich and flavorful sauce that will infuse the rice with sweetness and depth. (*Time: 5 minutes*)
- Rinse and Soak Rice: Place the sweet rice in a sieve and rinse under cold running water several times until the water runs clear. Allow the rice to drain completely for 10 to 20 minutes to ensure it absorbs the right amount of moisture, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. (*Time: 10-20 minutes*)
- Combine Ingredients in Cooker: Transfer the drained rice into a rice cooker or multi-cooker. Add the measured water and the prepared seasoning sauce. Mix well to ensure the sauce evenly coats the rice. Top with pine nuts, chestnuts, raisins, dried cranberries, and halved red dates, spreading them evenly for consistent flavor in every bite. (*Time: 5 minutes*)
- Cook the Rice: For Rice Cooker: Select the “multi steam” function and set the timer for 35 minutes. This setting allows the rice to cook thoroughly while infusing the flavors. For Instant Pot: Choose the ‘rice’ setting and set it to ‘high pressure’. Ensure the steam release valve is in the ‘sealing’ position. The Instant Pot will automatically adjust the cooking time, typically around 20 minutes. Once cooking is complete, carefully shift the steam release handle to the venting position to release the pressure.
- Finalize and Serve: After cooking, allow the rice to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Transfer the sweet rice to a rectangular pan, pressing it down firmly. Once cooled, cut into rectangular bars. Garnish each piece with pine nuts and thinly sliced jujube dates for an elegant presentation. (*Optional: Chill in the refrigerator for a firmer texture before serving.*) (*Time: 10 minutes)
Equipment
- rice cooker
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- sieve
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 439kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 45g
- Protein: 8g
- Vitamin A: 150IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ- Sweet Glutinous Rice Delight
Can I use regular rice instead of sweet glutinous rice?
While regular rice can be used, it won’t yield the same sticky and chewy texture. For best results, use sushi rice or Arborio rice as substitutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled or gently warm them in the microwave before eating.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the bars and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Garnish just before serving for the freshest look.
What’s the best way to peel chestnuts?
Boil or roast chestnuts before peeling. The heat helps loosen the shells, making them easier to remove.
Can this recipe be made in a pot instead of a rice cooker?
Yes, cook the rice on the stovetop over low heat, using a tightly fitting lid to retain steam. Check periodically to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. Adjust water as needed.
