Eight Precious Rice

Ingredients:

1 c. candied fruit (assorted colors)

3 T. lard or shortening

2 c. glutinous rice

6 T. sugar

1/2 c. red bean paste

2 t. cornstarch

1 c. water

"Eight Precious Rice" is the dessert in Chinese culinary arts that symbolizes good luck and prosperity. It is a delicious and mouth-watering treat that both young and old will enjoy. Its name is derived from the eight sweet ingredients that are used, even though today the choice and number are left to one's own discretion.

Use a medium-sized, circular baking dish. Grease the dish with 1 T. shortening. Then arrange the candied fruit in an attractive pattern at the bottom. Wash the glutinous rice and then boil it. While it is still hot, add 2 T. shortening and 3 T. sugar. Mix evenly. Place half the mixture in the baking dish, making sure the center is left "hollowed out." Fill with red bean paste. Add the remaining rice on top, making the top level. Steam one hour. Cover with a round dish and invert. Bring to a boil one cup water and 3 T. sugar. Add cornstarch to make a paste, and sprinkle it on top of the rice.

(Denny Chiu)