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Delicious Chinese Desserts: Traditional Recipes You Need to Try

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Delicious Chinese Desserts: Traditional Recipes You Need to Try

Delicious Chinese Desserts: Traditional Recipes You Need to Try

Delicious Chinese Desserts: Traditional Recipes You Need to Try

Chinese cuisine is celebrated not only for its savory dishes but also for its delightful desserts. From chewy rice cakes to creamy puddings, Chinese desserts are a testament to the country’s rich culinary heritage. If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth and explore traditional flavors, here are some must-try recipes that you can easily make at home.

1. Mango Sticky Rice (芒果糯米饭)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice
  • 1 mango, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • A pinch of salt
  • Sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Drain the rice and steam it for about 25-30 minutes, or until translucent and tender.
  3. In a separate pot, combine coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves. Set aside a few tablespoons for drizzling later.
  4. Once the rice is done, transfer it to a bowl and mix in the coconut milk mixture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  5. Serve the sticky rice on a plate and arrange the mango slices on top. Drizzle with the reserved coconut milk and sprinkle with sesame seeds or mung beans, if desired.

2. Egg Tarts (蛋挞)

Ingredients:

  • For the crust:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1 egg yolk

  • A few tablespoons of cold water

  • For the filling:

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water gradually until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit into a muffin tin.
  4. Press the dough into the muffin tin to form tart shells.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  6. Pour the filling into each tart shell and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are lightly golden.
  7. Let the tarts cool slightly before serving.

3. Red Bean Soup (红豆汤)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup red beans
  • 8 cups water
  • 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Coconut milk (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the red beans under cold water and soak them in water overnight.
  2. Drain and place the soaked beans into a large pot with 8 cups of water.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beans are soft.
  4. Add sugar to the pot and stir until dissolved. You can adjust the level of sweetness according to your taste.
  5. Serve the red bean soup warm, optionally adding a splash of coconut milk for extra richness.

4. Sesame Balls (芝麻球)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  • 1/4 cup water (more as needed)
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste (or sweet filling of your choice)
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Oil for deep-frying

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and water to form a smooth dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
  2. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each ball in your palm. Place a small amount of red bean paste in the center and wrap the dough around it to form a ball.
  3. Roll the balls in toasted sesame seeds until evenly coated.
  4. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently drop in the sesame balls and fry until golden brown, turning occasionally. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.

Conclusion

These traditional Chinese desserts are not only a delight to the taste buds but also a great way to explore the flavors of Chinese culture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and start your sweet adventure in the kitchen!