Ingredients

  • 2 cups glutenous rice, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup vegetable shortening or 1/4 cup lard, melted
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • Eight Treasure Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
  • 6 red candied dates
  • 8 -10 canned whole lotus seeds (optional)
  • candied red cherries
  • green glazed cherries
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 4 candied kumquats (optional)
  • 2/3 cup sweet red bean paste
  • Syrup
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 4 teaspoons triple sec or 4 teaspoons Grand Marnier
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch, mixed with
  • 1 teaspoon water

Method

  • Boil rice and water on med heat.
  • Boil uncovered 10 minutes or until water evaporates and you see big holes.
  • Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
  • Fluff rice then stir in melted shortening and sugar.
  • Set aside.
  • Generously grease 1 quart glass bowl.
  • Arrange almonds, dates, lotus seeds, red and green cherries, raisins and kumquats attractively over bottom of bowl.
  • Spread half the cooked rice over decoration.
  • Press down lightly.
  • Spread bean paste over rice for an even layer.
  • Cover with remaining rice, spreading evenly.
  • Cover bowl with small damp cloth.
  • Cooking:
  • Place covered bowl in steamer or on rack in wok.
  • Cover with a lid and steam over gently boiling water for one hour, replenishing water when necessary.
  • Meanwhile, place syrup over medium heat, swirling pan occasionally.
  • Continue to cook until syrup is reduced to 1/2 c, stirring constantly.
  • Keep warm.
  • Just before serving, add triple sec and mix well.
  • Cover mold with serving platter and invert, gently shaking to unmold.
  • Pour hot syrup over mold and serve hot.