Rice Puddings
Jenny Lee samples rice-based desserts from around the world.
In a region where the common question “Have you eaten rice?” means “Have you eaten yet?” rice holds a pretty important place in our daily lives. Enjoyed by more than half the world’s population, a steaming bowl of rice makes a satisfying base for any meal at any time of day; but more than that, it also has a wide range of less obvious uses. Tatami, a popular Japanese mat, is made of woven rice straw, beer and sake are often distilled from grains of rice, rice vinegar is used as a flavor enhancer for countless dishes, and in some regions, rice hulls are burned to produce energy. So why not rice for dessert? Makes a change from ice cream, cakes and pastries. Here are our favorites.
Arroz Con Leche (rice with milk)
Ole. 1/F Shun Ho Tower, 24-30 Ice House St., Central, 2523-8624. Open noon-3pm, 6:30pm-midnight.
Rice is not only a staple dish in Asia; Latin America is one of the largest consumers of the grain. While Asian cooks tend to use ground rice or rice flour in their desserts, Latin American chefs prefer creamed rice puddings with the consistency of rich smoothies. Ole is the place to go for authentic Spanish cuisine and its arroz con leche (rice with milk) for $50 is delicious. Served hot or cold, it’s perfect for all seasons. Creamy but light, the lemon-infused flavor complements the milkiness and the hint of cinnamon gives it a welcome kick.
Tong Yuen (glutinous rice balls)
Hui Lau Shan. Shop No.3, 2-6 Yee Wo St., Causeway Bay, 2972-2292.
Plain and chewy, tong yuen are fun to eat and come in a variety of flavors with different fillings or sauces. The chameleon of rice-based deserts, tong yuen have a glutinous rice-flour base and can even be eaten as a savory item. Hui Lau Shan is the place to go for summer desserts, many of which feature tong yuen. Glutinous rice balls with mixed fruits and two juices cost $35 and are a perfect way to cool down on a hot summer’s day. Glutinous rice balls with fresh mango filling are also tasty. Served hot, the warm mango chunks and juices inside a chewy outer skin are mouthwatering and, at $12 for three, a bargain.
Kaw Naung Ma Moing (sticky rice with mango)
Thai Perfect. R3, 8/F, Island Beverly 1 Great George St., Causeway Bay, 2890-4899.
