Easy Chinese Sweet Rice Balls (Tangyuan)
This simplified tangyuan recipe brings one of the most common Chinese desserts to your home with minimal effort. Perfect for busy families wanting to explore what are common Chinese desserts using ingredients you can find in most grocery stores.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/3 cup warm water (plus more if needed)
- Food coloring (optional)
- 3 cups water (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1-inch piece ginger, sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, gradually add warm water to the glutinous rice flour, stirring until it forms a smooth, pliable dough. If the dough is too dry, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time.
- If you'd like colored tangyuan, divide the dough and add a drop of food coloring to each portion, kneading until the color is evenly distributed.
- Pinch off small portions of dough and roll between your palms to form smooth balls about 1/2 inch in diameter
- In a pot, combine 3 cups of water with sugar and ginger (if using). Bring to a gentle boil.
- Carefully add the rice balls to the simmering water. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes
- Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes after they float to ensure they're fully cooked.
- Serve warm in the sweet cooking liquid, garnished with toasted sesame seeds
Notes
For a filled version, flatten each piece of dough, add a small amount of sweet filling (like black sesame paste or red bean paste), then seal and roll into a ball.
Keep your hands slightly moistened when rolling the rice balls to prevent sticking.
The cooked tangyuan should be translucent when done.
These are traditionally eaten during Winter Solstice, Lunar New Year, and other family gatherings.
For a quick colorful version perfect for children, divide the dough into 3-4 portions and add different food coloring to each.