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–+ servings
Chinese Pearl Meatballs with Sticky Rice (珍珠丸子)

Delectable Chinese Pearl Meatballs with Sticky Rice Recipe

Enjoy Chinese Pearl Meatballs with Sticky Rice, a dish that symbolizes celebration and unity, perfect for festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 500 g Ground Pork (80% lean) Provides the main protein.
  • 200 g Glutinous Rice Essential for the chewy coating.
  • 100 g Water Chestnuts Adds crunch; can use bell peppers.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger (minced) Infuses warmth and spice.
  • 3 tablespoons Scallions (white parts only, minced) Enhances flavor profile.
  • 60 ml Cold Water Helps bind the filling.
  • 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine Contributes depth.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Acts as a binding agent.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground White Pepper Adds mild spice.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Provides a toasted flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Balances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances flavors.
For Steaming
  • 4 leaves Dried Bamboo Leaves Used to line the steamer.

Equipment

  • Steamer

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Soak bamboo leaves in water overnight to soften and infuse aroma.
  2. Soak glutinous rice in water for about 2 hours to achieve a chewy texture.
  3. Hand-chop ground pork finely. Combine with minced water chestnuts, ginger, scallions, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, white pepper, sesame oil, sea salt, and sugar.
  4. Mix filling well in one direction for at least 5 minutes until sticky and fluffy. Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  5. Line your steamer with soaked bamboo leaves, ensuring the bottom is covered.
  6. Roll a tablespoon of mixture into a ball and coat each ball with soaked glutinous rice.
  7. Place the coated meatballs in the steamer and steam over high heat for about 20 minutes. Let sit for 3 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve with a drizzle of soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

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