Ingredients

3/4 cup sweet rice or 3/4 cup glutinous rice
6 dried brown dried Chinese mushrooms
1 lb lean pork , finely ground
1 egg , lightly beaten
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons finely minced gingerroot
8 water chestnuts , finely chopped , fresh if possible
1 scallion , finely chopped
Chinese Pearl Balls are bite-sized appetizers that are widely enjoyed in Chinese cuisine and are extremely popular at dim sum buffets. They are made from ground pork or chicken mixed with vegetables, herbs, and sweet/glutinous rice, then formed into small balls and steamed to perfection. The balls have a soft, slightly sticky exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior, bursting with umami flavors. Although they are time-consuming to make, the result is a delicious appetizer perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Instructions

1.Rinse the sweet/glutinous rice and soak it in water for an hour.
2.Soak the dried mushrooms in hot water for an hour or so, then finely chop them.
3.In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, beaten egg, soy sauce, sugar, and gingerroot, and mix until well combined.
4.Mix in the chopped mushrooms, water chestnuts, and scallion until well combined.
5.Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a ping-pong ball.
6.Drain the soaked rice and coat each ball with the rice, pressing it gently into the meat mixture to adhere.
7.Place the balls on a lightly oiled plate, cover, and steam for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
8.Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallion and soy sauce on the side.

PROS

Chinese Pearl Balls make a delicious and healthy appetizer perfect for any party, gathering, or get-together.

The balls are packed with flavorful pork and vegetables and are gluten-free.

CONS

The process of making Chinese Pearl Balls is a little long and time-consuming.

They can only be served as an appetizer, and cannot be a complete meal.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chinese Pearl Balls are a healthy appetizer option as they are gluten-free, low in fat, and packed with protein and fiber.
The water chestnuts are also excellent sources of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health.

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