Imagine a dish so delicate it practically melts in your mouth, yet so satisfying that it transports you straight to the bustling street markets of Hong Kong. Cheung Fun, or Chinese Rice Noodle Rolls, are a hidden gem of Cantonese cuisine that will revolutionize your home cooking experience. These gossamer-thin, pillowy rice rolls filled with fresh vegetables are not just a meal—they're an edible work of art that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetables for filling (e.g., mushrooms, carrots, scallions)
- Soy sauce for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the batter by combining rice flour, tapioca starch, salt, and water in a large mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and free of lumps, ensuring a silky consistency.
- Prepare your steaming setup by setting up a large steamer with water. Line a flat, shallow steaming tray or plate with a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Finely chop selected vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and scallions for filling. Set aside and prepare for assembly.
- Pour a thin, even layer of batter (approximately 1/8 inch thick) onto the prepared steaming tray. Spread gently to create a uniform surface.
- Steam the batter for 2-3 minutes until the surface becomes translucent and slightly firm but still soft and pliable.
- Sprinkle prepared chopped vegetables evenly across the steamed rice sheet while still hot.
- Carefully roll the rice sheet into a tight cylinder using a spatula or flat utensil, creating a smooth, even roll.
- Slice the rolls into 1-inch thick pieces and arrange on a serving plate.
- Drizzle with soy sauce just before serving. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped scallions.
Tips
- Consistency is Key: When mixing your batter, whisk thoroughly to eliminate any lumps. A smooth batter ensures silky, tender rice rolls.
- Oil Matters: Lightly oil your steaming tray to prevent sticking. Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for best results.
- Thin is In: Pour the batter in a very thin, even layer (about 1/8 inch thick) for the most delicate texture.
- Steam with Precision: Watch your steaming time closely—2-3 minutes is the sweet spot for achieving the perfect translucent, soft texture.
- Rolling Technique: Use a flat spatula or bench scraper to roll your rice sheet, applying gentle, consistent pressure for smooth, tight rolls.
- Serve Immediately: Cheung Fun is best enjoyed fresh and warm, so time your preparation to serve right after cooking.
- Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe uses vegetables, don't be afraid to try shrimp, beef, or even sweet fillings for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
