As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with enticing aromas, I can’t help but think of the comforting embrace of Taiwanese Sticky Rice. This dish, rich in flavors and memories, transports me to bustling night markets where the savory scents of marinated chicken and earthy mushrooms mingle in the air. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, delicate shrimp, and glutinous rice—each component carefully crafted to create a delightful experience.
I discovered this recipe on a relaxed weekend, inspired by the need to break free from my usual routines and fast-food habits. It’s incredibly satisfying to prepare something from scratch that impresses my family and friends without the fuss of complicated techniques. With just a few simple steps and ingredients that pack a punch, you’ll have a meal that not only nourishes but also feels celebratory.
Join me in crafting this flavorful dish that captures the essence of comfort food while being versatile enough for any gathering. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this Taiwanese Sticky Rice becomes the star of your table!
Why is Taiwanese Sticky Rice irresistible?
Comforting Experience: There’s something uniquely heartwarming about creating this dish that brings people together around the table.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of marinated chicken, savory mushrooms, and umami-packed shrimp ensures every bite is an adventure for your taste buds.
Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can elevate your cooking game without feeling overwhelmed, perfect for both novice and seasoned chefs alike.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends, making it ideal for any gathering or celebration.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables, allowing you to experiment with flavors each time you make it.
Enjoy the magic of home-cooked meals with this delightful dish! For more exciting culinary creations, check out our other recipes!
Taiwanese Sticky Rice Ingredients
Explore the delightful components of this beloved dish!
For the Rice
• Glutinous Rice – This sticky rice is the star of the show; soak it to achieve a perfect texture.
For the Broth
• Mushroom Water or Chicken Stock – Adds depth of flavor, but feel free to use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
For the Chicken Marinade
• Chicken Thigh – Provides a juicy protein base; feel free to substitute with tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Soy Sauce – Infuses rich umami flavor; it’s a must-have in Taiwanese Sticky Rice.
• White Pepper – Offers a subtle heat that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sugar – Balances flavors, enhancing the savory notes of the dish.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a wonderful nutty aroma and richness.
For the Aromatics
• Shallots – Bring a sweet, mild onion flavor that elevates the dish when sautéed.
For the Fillers
• Dehydrated Mushroom – Intensifies the earthy flavor; rehydrate before cooking for the best texture.
• Dehydrated Shrimp – This ingredient brings a delightful ocean flavor; adjust the quantity based on your preference.
For the Sauce
• Vegetarian Oyster Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and umami without any animal products.
• Soy Sauce – Used again for an extra hit of flavor in the final mix.
Get ready to savor the warmth and depth of this incredible Taiwanese Sticky Rice!
How to Make Taiwanese Sticky Rice
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Soak the Rice: Begin by soaking the glutinous rice in water for at least 3 hours or overnight, then drain and set aside. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sticky texture.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, marinate the chicken thighs with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of white pepper, 1.5 tablespoons of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let this sit while you prepare the other ingredients for maximum flavor.
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Sauté Shallots: In a pan, heat about 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant, creating a wonderful base for your dish.
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Add Fillers: Toss in the rehydrated shiitake mushrooms and dehydrated shrimp to the pan. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the delightful aromas fill your kitchen.
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Cook the Chicken: Next, add the marinated chicken thighs to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown slightly and absorb all those flavors.
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Combine Ingredients: Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 2.5 tablespoons of vegetarian oyster sauce. Add the soaked glutinous rice and mix well, ensuring the rice absorbs every bit of the savory sauce.
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Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken stock or mushroom water, folding the rice gently to allow it to soak up the broth. Continue this for about 3-5 minutes until the rice is fully hydrated and fragrant.
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Prepare for Steaming: Line your steamer with parchment paper or lotus leaf, making holes in the rice with a chopstick. This helps steam evenly while allowing air to circulate.
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Steam the Rice: Finally, steam the mixture for 20 minutes, and you’ll soon be greeted by an irresistible aroma that fills your home with warmth.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Taiwanese Sticky Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Taiwanese Sticky Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to preserve its moist texture.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the rice in portioned airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Ensure that there is minimal air inside to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and steam for about 10 minutes to restore its sticky consistency. Alternatively, microwave it with a splash of water covered for a few minutes until heated through.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the rice out for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage; always refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Taiwanese Sticky Rice Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with exciting twists and substitutions that suit your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out regular stock for coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture with a hint of sweetness. This gives a unique flair to the dish.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh, and replace shrimp with additional vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option. The texture remains satisfying, and everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped fresh chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level and add a zesty punch. You’ll love that exciting tingle with every bite!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish. The freshness will awaken your senses!
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for added crunch and nuttiness. This unexpected twist creates a delightful contrast to the tender rice.
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Fruit Touch: Consider adding diced pineapple or even sweet mango chunks for a fruity twist that balances the savory elements beautifully. It’s a wonderful reminder of summer!
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Mushroom Medley: Experiment with various mushrooms, like shiitake, king oyster, or portobello, to deepen the umami flavor profile. Each type adds its own unique character that’s simply irresistible.
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Umami Boost: Enhance the dish with a splash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a savory depth that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Each bite will be packed with flavor!
Embrace your creativity and enjoy the process of personalizing this beloved dish to fit your family’s tastes!
What to Serve with Taiwanese Sticky Rice?
As you prepare this savory dish, consider pairing it with delightful sides that complete your meal experience.
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Steamed Bok Choy: The tender, crisp texture adds a fresh and slightly bitter contrast that complements the rich flavors of the sticky rice beautifully.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights filled with vegetables and shrimp offer a satisfying bite that balances the chewy rice.
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Soy Sauce Chicken: The umami-rich chicken perfectly marries with the sticky rice, creating a comforting harmony of flavors on your plate.
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Sesame Green Beans: Adding a nutty flavor, these stir-fried green beans provide a pop of color and a refreshing crunch alongside the rice.
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Pickled Cucumbers: The tangy acidity from the pickles cuts through the richness of the rice, creating a refreshing palate cleanse between bites.
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Hot and Sour Soup: A steaming bowl of this soup enriches the meal with bold flavors, providing a delightful contrast to the sticky rice’s texture.
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Chilled Tofu Salad: The cool and creamy tofu salad offers a light contrast, enhancing the meal’s balance with its delicate flavors.
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Sweet Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this classic dessert offers a sweet ending that echoes the sticky rice theme, ensuring a cohesive dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Taiwanese Sticky Rice delights are perfect for meal prep! You can soak the glutinous rice up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s perfectly hydrated for cooking. Additionally, marinating the chicken thighs can be done the night before (up to 3 days) to deepen the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the shallots, add the rehydrated mushrooms and shrimp, followed by the marinated chicken. Finish by mixing in the rice and broth, then steam for 20 minutes. To maintain quality, store the soaked rice and marinated chicken separately in the refrigerator, and combine them fresh on the day you plan to enjoy this flavorful Taiwanese Sticky Rice!
Expert Tips for Taiwanese Sticky Rice
Soak for Success: Make sure to soak the glutinous rice for at least 3 hours or overnight to achieve that signature sticky texture.
Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate longer, if possible, which enhances flavor and tenderness—don’t rush this step!
Mind the Heat: Sauté the shallots on medium heat; cooking them too fast can lead to burnt bits and bitterness in the dish.
Careful with the Fillers: Avoid over-soaking the dehydrated mushroom and shrimp; just rehydrate until they’re tender to maintain the right texture.
Steaming Perfectly: Use a bamboo steamer if available; it adds a subtle flavor and helps cook the Taiwanese Sticky Rice evenly.
Taste Before Final Steps: Always taste the mixture before steaming to adjust seasoning; it’s the perfect moment to balance flavors!
Taiwanese Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right glutinous rice?
Absolutely! When choosing glutinous rice, look for an opaque, milky appearance rather than a translucent one. The best quality will have a polished look and should ideally be labeled as “sweet rice” or “sticky rice”. Additionally, ensure it’s fresh, as older rice can affect the texture and flavor of your Taiwanese Sticky Rice.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Taiwanese Sticky Rice fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days. Ensure that the rice has cooled to room temperature before sealing it—this helps to maintain its moisture and prevents clumping.
Can I freeze Taiwanese Sticky Rice?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy your Taiwanese Sticky Rice later. Make sure to portion the rice into airtight freezer bags or containers with as little air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight and steam for about 10 minutes to regain the perfect texture.
What if my rice isn’t sticky enough after cooking?
Very often, the key to sticky rice lies in proper soaking and steaming. If your rice turns out too dry, it likely needed more soaking time; soaking for at least 3 hours or overnight is ideal. When reheating, add a splash of water and cover it while reheating, as this can create steam and help the rice become more sticky.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re making Taiwanese Sticky Rice for guests with dietary restrictions, remember that it’s easy to modify. For vegetarians or vegans, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Always check labels for allergens in soy sauce and oyster sauce, as some brands may contain gluten or shellfish.
How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
To elevate the flavor of your Taiwanese Sticky Rice, consider adding aromatics like garlic or ginger during the sautéing phase. Additionally, fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can be sprinkled on top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to adding those delicious layers!
Savory Taiwanese Sticky Rice: A Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the glutinous rice in water for at least 3 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
- Marinate the chicken thighs with soy sauce, white pepper, sesame oil, and sugar for maximum flavor.
- In a pan, heat oil and sauté the sliced shallots until golden and fragrant.
- Add in the rehydrated mushrooms and shrimp, sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
- Next, add the marinated chicken thighs and cook until slightly browned.
- Drizzle in soy sauce and vegetarian oyster sauce. Mix in the soaked glutinous rice.
- Pour in the broth, gently folding to soak the rice.
- Line your steamer with parchment and prepare the rice for steaming.
- Steam for 20 minutes until fully cooked and aromatic.