Chinese Sticky Rice Recipe Vegetarian Made Easy and Delicious

Chinese sticky rice, also known as “Lo Mai Fan” or “Nuomi Fan,” is a beloved dish famous for its rich, comforting flavors and chewy, satisfying texture. Traditionally packed with savory meats and mushrooms, this vegetarian twist keeps all the authentic charm while making it suitable for those who prefer plant-based meals.

Perfect as a hearty side or a fulfilling main, this dish combines fragrant sticky rice with an assortment of vegetables, shiitake mushrooms, and flavorful seasonings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a cozy dinner, this recipe offers a deliciously fragrant and nutritious option that’s easy to prepare at home.

Get ready to dive into the world of Asian cuisine with this vegetarian Chinese sticky rice recipe that balances umami, sweetness, and texture in every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your diet while enjoying a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Chinese sticky rice recipe stands out for its incredible depth of flavor and versatility. The use of sticky (glutinous) rice gives it that perfect sticky, chewy texture that makes every mouthful a delight.

The combination of shiitake mushrooms, water chestnuts, and savory soy sauce creates a rich, umami-packed dish that appeals to both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Additionally, it’s a gluten-free recipe (just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce if needed) and customizable to include your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or meal prep, this dish is both nutritious and comforting.

Ingredients

• 2 cups glutinous (sticky) rice
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, soaked if dried and sliced
• 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional for color)
• 1/2 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 green onions, sliced thinly
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
• Optional garnish: toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Large bowl for soaking rice
• Steamer or bamboo steamer basket
• Large skillet or wok
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Rice cooker or pot with lid (optional, for steaming rice)

Instructions

1. Soak the sticky rice: Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in enough water to cover for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables: If using dried shiitake mushrooms, soak them in warm water for 20-30 minutes until soft. Slice thinly. Dice carrots, bell peppers, water chestnuts, and chestnuts if using.
3. Cook the mushroom mixture: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add mushrooms and vegetables: Toss in the shiitake mushrooms, carrots, bell peppers, and water chestnuts. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Season the mixture: Add soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and half of the sliced green onions. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. Mix rice and vegetable filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained sticky rice with the cooked vegetable mixture, mixing thoroughly so the rice absorbs the flavors evenly.
7. Steam the sticky rice: Transfer the rice and vegetable mixture to a heatproof dish or bowl that fits inside your steamer. Pour the vegetable broth evenly over the mixture to keep it moist.
8. Steam for 45-60 minutes: Place the dish inside the steamer basket and steam over boiling water for 45-60 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. Check occasionally to ensure there is enough water in the steamer.
9. Finish with sesame oil: Once steamed, drizzle the sesame oil over the sticky rice and gently fluff to combine.
10. Serve and garnish: Transfer the sticky rice to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

For best results, soak your sticky rice overnight. This ensures it cooks evenly and attains the perfect chewy texture.

Feel free to customize this dish by adding other vegetables like peas, baby corn, or bamboo shoots. For extra protein, toss in some cubed firm tofu or tempeh, lightly fried before mixing in.

Vegetarian oyster sauce can be substituted with hoisin sauce or additional soy sauce for a different flavor profile. To add some heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil just before serving.

If you don’t have a steamer, you can cook the rice mixture in a rice cooker, adding the vegetable broth and steaming until tender; just ensure it’s set to the sticky rice or porridge setting.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian sticky rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of Asian-inspired dishes. Serve it alongside stir-fried greens like bok choy or Chinese broccoli for a fresh contrast.

It also complements crispy spring rolls or steamed dumplings for a complete meal.

For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar and sesame seeds. You can also enjoy it as a standalone dish for a quick, comforting lunch or dinner.

Check out some of our other recipes to round out your menu:

• Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe – A perfect veggie side to accompany your sticky rice.
• Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe – Add a spicy, tangy bite alongside your meal.
• Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe – Finish your meal sweetly with this creamy dessert.

Conclusion

This vegetarian Chinese sticky rice recipe is a delightful dish that offers a taste of traditional Asian cuisine with a wholesome, plant-based twist. It’s rich in flavor, beautifully textured, and surprisingly simple to prepare with readily available ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Asian cooking, this recipe is an excellent way to explore the unique world of sticky rice dishes.

Perfect for family meals, gatherings, or even meal prepping, it keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or add your personal touch to make it truly your own.

For more delicious recipes and kitchen inspiration, be sure to explore our other posts and enjoy the journey of cooking at home!

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