Can I use a rice cooker for the sticky rice?
Yes, you can cook glutinous rice in a rice cooker, but the texture might be slightly different than steaming. Use a 1:1 ratio of rice to water for cooking in a rice cooker.
BREAKFAST
Taiwanese Savory Sticky Rice with Braised Pork and Mushrooms
This classic Taiwanese breakfast features tender sticky rice topped with a rich, savory braised pork and mushroom sauce. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for starting your day.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then soak it in cold water for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. Drain well before cooking.
02
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed pork belly and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and some fat has rendered.
03
Add the rehydrated and sliced shiitake mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
04
Stir in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white pepper, and 1/2 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and braise for 20 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
05
While the pork braises, steam the drained glutinous rice. Place the rice in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or a damp cloth. Steam over boiling water for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and translucent.
06
Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork. Serve the steamed sticky rice immediately, topped generously with the braised pork and mushroom mixture.
About This Recipe
This classic Taiwanese breakfast features tender sticky rice topped with a rich, savory braised pork and mushroom sauce. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for starting your day.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of five-spice powder to the braising liquid. Garnish with chopped scallions or fried shallots for added texture and aroma.
Easy Substitutions
If pork belly is unavailable, use pork shoulder cut into small cubes. Dried shrimp can be added with the mushrooms for an extra layer of umami. For a vegetarian version, omit the pork and use extra mushrooms and a vegetable broth.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sticky rice and braised pork separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the rice by steaming or microwaving with a splash of water, and gently reheat the pork sauce on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Taiwanese Savory Sticky Rice as a hearty breakfast or a light lunch. It pairs wonderfully with a side of pickled daikon or cucumber for a refreshing contrast. A fried egg on top is also a popular addition. Enjoy it with a cup of hot tea or soy milk.
Common Mistakes
1. Not soaking the glutinous rice: This leads to unevenly cooked and hard rice. Always soak for at least 30 minutes. 2. Overcooking the pork: Braise until tender, but not mushy. 3. Not draining the rice properly: Excess water can make the rice too sticky or gummy. 4. Using regular rice: Glutinous rice has a unique texture essential for this dish. 5. Forgetting to season: Taste the braising liquid and adjust soy sauce or pepper as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pork belly should I buy?
Look for skin-on pork belly, as the skin adds richness and gelatinous texture to the braise.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The braised pork and mushroom topping can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving over freshly steamed rice.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to perfect sticky rice is proper soaking and steaming. Soaking ensures even cooking and a tender texture. When steaming, make sure the water in your pot is at a rolling boil before placing the steamer basket to ensure consistent heat. If your rice seems too dry after steaming, you can sprinkle a tablespoon or two of hot water over it, fluff, and steam for another 5 minutes.
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