A "sticky" glutinous rice ball is the most famous dessert in Myanmar (also known as Burma), especially during the new year season. This treat is very sweet and tasty, and can be prepared in a few minutes. Here's the simple way to cook glutinous rice balls, Myanmar style.
Step 1
See the "Things You'll Need" section below and proceed.
Step 2
Add water into the glutinous rice flour until the flour becomes sticky.
Step 3
Chop the jaggery into pieces.
Step 4
Roll the powder dough into 1 or 1/2 inch (25 mm or 12 mm) balls and fill them with the jaggery inside.
Step 5
Put the balls in the boiling water. When you put the balls in the water, they will sink.
Step 6
Take the balls out of the water when they come up to the surface.
Step 7
Garnish the balls with ground coconut.
Tips
- Add more ground coconut for a sweeter treat.
- These steps are for making traditional Myanmar glutinous rice balls, but there are many variations throughout Asia. Some are savory, some are sweet, but all are delicious. Some other stuffings you can find recipes for and experiment with are: red bean paste, chicken, sesame seeds, peanut butter, seafood, chili and more. But keep in mind that in Myanmar, sticky rice balls are not to be eaten with seafood or chicken.
Warnings
- When adding or taking out the rice balls, remember the water is very hot. Do it slowly.
- Don't overcook the glutinous rice balls.
- Be careful when using the stove. Don't let the kids cook alone.
Things You'll Need
- a package of glutinous rice flour - look for this at any Asian market
- a bowl of ground coconut
- a bowl of jaggery (unrefined brown sugar), chopped
