Introduction
Sweet Osmanthus Rice Cake, known as 桂花糕 (Guī Huā Gāo) in Mandarin, is a charming treat deeply rooted in Chinese culture, celebrated for its unique floral fragrance and delicate sweetness. This sticky rice cake is often found at dim sum restaurants, during festive celebrations, and in cozy tea houses where it usually ranges from $3 to $8 per serving. Restaurants such as DimDimSum Dim Sum Specialty Store in San Francisco serve variations of this delightful dessert, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. As a contemporary twist, a keto version of the Sweet Osmanthus Rice Cake is gaining traction, allowing those on low-carb diets to indulge in its fragrant allure without the guilt.
Origin and Inspiration
Originating from Southern China, Sweet Osmanthus Rice Cake is traditionally made during the Mid-Autumn Festival or around family gatherings, symbolizing unity and prosperity. The essence of osmanthus flowers, with their sweet floral notes reminiscent of honey and fruit, provides this dish with a distinctive aroma and a touch of elegance. Much like Japan’s popular mochi or Korea’s rice cakes (tteok), this steamed delicacy highlights the importance of glutinous rice in Asian cuisines.
For the keto adaptation of Sweet Osmanthus Rice Cake, low-carb almond flour is creatively used to replace traditional glutinous rice flour, allowing you to enjoy the same delightful taste and chewy texture. Imagine savoring the fragrant sweetness while keeping those carbs in check—it’s a guilt-free sweet escape that celebrates both tradition and modern health consciousness.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 180 kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 10mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g
Keto Version
Calories: 145 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 70mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp dried osmanthus flowers
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp sweetener (erythritol for keto, sugar for traditional)
- A pinch of salt
Traditional Version:
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
Keto Version:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp coconut flour
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter:
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Traditional Version: In a mixing bowl, whisk together glutinous rice flour, sugar, dried osmanthus flowers, a pinch of salt, coconut milk, and water until smooth. The batter should have a glossy sheen, almost like a gentle river reflecting sunlight.
- Keto Version: Combine almond flour, coconut flour, erythritol, dried osmanthus flowers, salt, coconut milk, and water, blending until a thick yet pourable batter is formed, reminiscent of a creamy custard.
2. Cooking Method:
- Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a gentle boil. Pour the batter into a greased mold. As it steams, the sweet scent of osmanthus will fill your kitchen, enveloping you like a warm embrace. Steam for about 25-30 minutes or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
3. Shaping & Final Assembly:
- Once steamed, let the cake cool slightly. Carefully remove it from the mold. Slice it into squares or wedges, yielding beautifully glistening pieces, ready for serving.
4. Final Cooking and Serving:
- Serve the Sweet Osmanthus Rice Cake warm or at room temperature. For the traditional version, a sprinkle of additional osmanthus flowers on top provides an extra touch of elegance. The sweet floral aroma is further enhanced when paired with a cup of hot tea.
What Does It Pair Well With?
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Traditional Pairings: Enjoy the soft, sweet, and fragrant rice cake alongside a fragrant jasmine tea, allowing the tea’s floral notes to complement the osmanthus beautifully. Alternatively, serve with fresh fruit such as lychee or mango for a refreshing contrast.
- Keto-Friendly Pairings: Pair it with a luscious coconut cream or dark chocolate sauce for a decadent, low-carb dessert experience. A cup of herbal tea can also elevate the dining experience, blending soothing flavors with the sweet cake.
What is the Shelf Life?
Sweet Osmanthus Rice Cake is best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate texture and flavor. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, carefully wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then steam briefly to regain its tender texture.
Alternative Cooking Methods
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a pan lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness as you would with a cake.
- Microwave: For a quick treat, ladle individual portions into microwave-safe cups and microwave for 2-3 minutes, checking periodically until set.
Conclusion: Embrace the Sweetness
Whether you indulge in the traditional Sweet Osmanthus Rice Cake or opt for the nourishing keto version, both promise to whisk you away to a fragrant, sweet paradise. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of chewy texture and delicate osmanthus aroma, reminding us that culinary traditions can adapt to our modern lifestyles. As you savor this delightful treat, let it transport you to a peaceful afternoon filled with blooming flowers and cherished memories—a sweet moment of bliss that fits just perfectly in your day.
