Lotus leaf rice, also known as ‘Nor Mai Fan’ in Cantonese, is a traditional Chinese dish that is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. The aroma of the lotus leaf infuses into the rice, giving it a unique fragrance that is hard to resist. It is a dish often served during special occasions or family gatherings, making it a favorite among many Chinese households.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of glutinous rice
• 4 dried lotus leaves
• 200g of chicken thighs, diced
• 6 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and sliced
• 4 Chinese sausages, sliced
• 4 slices of ginger
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 2 hours.
2. Soak the dried lotus leaves in warm water until they are pliable, then cut them into halves.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium heat and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
4. Add the diced chicken thighs and cook until they are no longer pink.
5. Add the sliced Chinese sausages and shiitake mushrooms, and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Drain the glutinous rice and add it to the wok, stirring well to combine with the other ingredients.
7. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring continuously.
8. Place a lotus leaf half in a deep dish or bamboo steamer, and spoon in the rice mixture.
9. Wrap the lotus leaf around the rice, forming a neat parcel. Repeat with the remaining leaves and rice.
10. Steam the lotus leaf rice parcels over high heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
11. Serve the lotus leaf rice hot, unwrapping the parcels just before eating to enjoy the aroma.

Homemade lotus leaf rice is a dish that will delight your senses with its delicious taste and fragrant aroma. It is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in or a special meal with loved ones. Try making this traditional Chinese dish at home and experience the flavors of Asia in every bite!