Asian > Japanese > Rice

Mochi Rice Balls Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups glutinous rice flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup red bean paste
- 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut

Special equipment needed:
- Steamer
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.

2. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into balls.

3. Flatten each ball and place a small amount of red bean paste or black sesame seeds in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and roll it into a ball again.

4. Place the mochi balls on a baking sheet lined with plastic wrap.

5. Fill a steamer with water and bring it to a boil. Place the baking sheet with the mochi balls in the steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes.

6. Remove the mochi balls from the steamer and let them cool.

7. Roll the mochi balls in cornstarch to prevent them from sticking together.

8. Optional: Roll the mochi balls in shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
Steaming temperature: 100°C (212°F)
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 mochi rice balls

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 1g
Saturated fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 5mg
Total carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Red bean paste can be substituted with peanut butter or Nutella.
- Black sesame seeds can be substituted with chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Shredded coconut can be omitted or substituted with cocoa powder.

Variations:
- Matcha mochi balls: Add 1 tablespoon of matcha powder to the dough for a green tea flavor.
- Fruity mochi balls: Add 1/4 cup of mashed fruit (such as strawberries or mango) to the dough for a fruity flavor.
- Savory mochi balls: Omit the sugar and add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the dough. Fill the mochi balls with savory fillings such as cooked ground pork or chopped vegetables.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a wooden spoon to mix the dough to prevent it from sticking to your hands.
- Wet your hands with water before shaping the mochi balls to prevent the dough from sticking to your hands.
- Store the mochi balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Storage instructions:
Store the mochi balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Steam the mochi balls for 5-10 minutes to reheat them.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the mochi balls on a plate and sprinkle them with shredded coconut or sesame seeds for added texture and color.

Garnishes:
Garnish the mochi balls with fresh fruit or whipped cream.

Pairings:
Serve the mochi balls with green tea or fruit juice.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve the mochi balls with fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more glutinous rice flour.
- If the mochi balls are too hard, steam them for a few more minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Use clean hands and utensils when handling food.
- Store food in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.

Food history:
Mochi rice balls are a traditional Japanese dessert that is often served during the New Year's holiday. They are made from glutinous rice flour and are often filled with sweet or savory fillings.

Flavor profiles:
Mochi rice balls have a chewy texture and a sweet flavor. The filling can add additional flavors such as nutty, fruity, or savory.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the mochi rice balls as a dessert or snack. They can also be served as a part of a Japanese-style meal.

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Region: Japanese

Taste: Sweet, Chewy, Nutty, Savory