Zong Zi Recipe
Zong zi is a rice snack food wrapped in bamboo leaves, traditionally made to honor the poet Qu Yuan.
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Ingredients
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Rice and Fillings
Wrapping
Method
Preparation
- 1
Soak the Bamboo Leaves
Soak the bamboo leaves in warm water for at least 30 minutes to make them pliable for wrapping.
- 2
Prepare the Rice
Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- 3
Prepare the Fillings
Cut the pork belly into small cubes and soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for about 30 minutes. Once softened, slice the mushrooms. In a bowl, combine the pork, mushrooms, salt, soy sauce, and five-spice powder. Mix well and let marinate for 30 minutes.
- 4
Prepare the Chestnuts
If using whole chestnuts, peel and cook them before adding them to the filling mixture.
Wrapping and Cooking
- 5
Wrap the Zong Zi
Take two bamboo leaves and lay them on top of each other with the pointed ends facing away from you. Fold the leaves to create a cone shape. Fill the cone with a layer of soaked rice, followed by a layer of the pork mixture, and top with a few chestnuts. Finally, add another layer of rice to cover the fillings. Fold the leaves over the filling to form a tight package and secure it with kitchen twine.
- 6
Cook the Zong Zi
Place the wrapped zong zi in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 2 hours, ensuring they are fully submerged in water. Add more water if necessary.
- 7
Serve
Once cooked, remove the zong zi from the pot and let them cool slightly before unwrapping. Serve warm or at room temperature.
