Lotus Leaf Wrap
Introduction
Lotus Leaf Wrap, also known as Lotus Leaf Rice, is a traditional Chinese dish often served during special occasions and festivals. This delicious dish involves fragrant sticky rice wrapped in a lotus leaf, creating a delightful blend of flavors and aromas. The dish has roots in the southern regions of China and has been enjoyed for centuries. It's a testament to the rich culinary history and cultural significance of lotus leaves in Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients
- Glutinous Rice - 2 cups
- Chicken - 1/2 pound, diced
- Dried Shiitake Mushrooms - 5 pieces
- Chinese Sausage - 2 links, sliced
- Lotus Leaves - 3 large pieces
- Soy Sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Oyster Sauce - 1 tablespoon
- Sesame Oil - 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch - 1 teaspoon
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger - 1 inch, minced
- Scallions - 2, chopped
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Glutinous Rice needs to be soaked for at least four hours or overnight; this helps in achieving the perfect texture. Rinse and soak Dried Shiitake Mushrooms in warm water until they are soft. Once softened, slice them thinly. Dice the Chicken and slice the Chinese Sausage. Mince the Garlic and Ginger, and chop the Scallions.
Step 2: Preparing the Lotus Leaves
Lotus Leaves must be softened by soaking in hot water. This process may take about 30 minutes. Once soft, rinse them under cold water and pat dry. Trim any hard stems.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Cooking the Filling
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Sauté the Garlic and Ginger until fragrant. Add the Chicken and cook until it turns white. Toss in the Dried Shiitake Mushrooms and Chinese Sausage, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Add a mixture of Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, and Sesame Oil, mixed with the Cornstarch. Stir until everything is well-coated and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with Salt and Pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Rice
Drain soaked Glutinous Rice and steam it until fully cooked, about 30-45 minutes. You can use a rice cooker or a traditional steamer. Once cooked, mix the rice with the prepared filling and add chopped Scallions.
Step 3: Wrapping
Lay the Lotus Leaves flat and place about a cup of the rice mixture in the center of each leaf. Fold the leaf over the filling to create a neat parcel. Secure it with kitchen string if necessary.
Step 4: Steaming
Place the wrapped parcels in a steamer. Steam the wrapped lotus leaves for about 30 minutes on medium heat. For accurate timing, you can use a cooking timer.
Enjoying Your Lotus Leaf Wrap
These wraps are best served warm. Gently open the lotus leaf without dismantling it completely as it can serve as a natural plate. Pair your Lotus Leaf Wrap with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple green tea for a complete meal experience. The aroma of the Lotus Leaves infuses the rice and ingredients, creating a truly unique culinary experience. Share it with family and friends to fully embrace its cultural significance and delicious flavor.