Soy-Free Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf

Transform your dinner table into a dim sum dream with this Soy-Free Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf recipe—an irresistible blend of glutinous rice, tender chicken, plump shrimp, and fragrant shiitake mushrooms, all wrapped in aromatic lotus leaves. This soy-free version ditches traditional soy sauce, relying instead on gluten-free oyster sauce and fish sauce for robust umami flavors, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions. The combination of water chestnuts and sesame oil adds a delightful crunch and nutty essence, while the lotus leaf infuses the steamed parcels with a subtle, earthy aroma. With its fragrant filling and elegant presentation, this dish is both a feast for the senses and a wholesome meal. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or a cozy dinner, this authentic yet allergy-friendly twist on a Cantonese classic will become a standout favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:90 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Glutinous rice (sticky rice)
• 4 large Dried lotus leaves
• 1 cup Chicken thigh, diced
• 0.5 cup Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 0.5 cup Shiitake mushrooms, diced
• 0.25 cup Water chestnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Oyster sauce (soy-free)
• 1 tablespoon Fish sauce (gluten-free and soy-free)
• 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, minced
• 2 Green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Cooking oil (neutral, such as avocado or canola oil)
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Pepper
• 2.5 cups Water

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the glutinous rice until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 2

Soak the lotus leaves in warm water for 30 minutes or until pliable. Carefully clean them and set aside.

Step 3

Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, and water chestnuts to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and the shrimp have turned opaque.

Step 5

Stir in the soy-free oyster sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6

Drain the soaked rice. In a large pot, combine the rice with 2.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked. Allow the rice to cool slightly.

Step 7

Mix the cooked rice with the chicken and shrimp mixture until evenly combined.

Step 8

Lay one soaked lotus leaf flat on a clean surface. Place about 1/4 of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the edges over to form a secure parcel, ensuring there are no gaps. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 9

Set up a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Place the lotus leaf parcels in the steamer, ensuring they do not overlap. Steam for 30 minutes on medium heat.

Step 10

Remove the parcels from the steamer and allow to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1812.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1553.6

Total Fat 76.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.8g
Cholesterol 454.4mg	0%
Sodium 3992.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 125.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.3g	0%
Total Sugars 12.6g
Protein 93.7g	0%

Vitamin D 131.6IU	0%
Calcium 287.3mg	0%
Iron 6.9mg	0%
Potassium 2205.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.9%

Protein: 23.9%

Carbs: 32.2%