The enticing aroma of Chinese sausage sizzling in a steamer fills my kitchen with comfort and nostalgia, transporting me to bustling street markets in Vietnam. This Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage, known as Xoi Lap Xuong, has become my go-to dish when I crave a delightful blend of chewy, savory goodness. It’s remarkable how a dish so simple can carry layers of flavor, from the sweet notes of the sausage to the rich umami of soy sauce and green onion.
Perfect for breakfast, a hearty snack, or even a light dinner, this recipe effortlessly transitions from cozy mornings to lively gatherings with friends and family. What I love most is that it demands very little culinary expertise, making it ideal even for those new to the kitchen. Plus, the versatility is incredible! You can easily swap in your favorite proteins or add veggies to suit your taste.
Join me on this journey to create a dish that not only nourishes the body but warms the heart as well!
Why is Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage irresistible?
Comforting Aroma: The warmth of steamed rice and sizzling sausage creates an inviting kitchen ambiance.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with sweet and savory notes, making it incredibly satisfying.
Easy Preparation: Perfect for novice cooks, this dish requires minimal effort and skill.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or a side dish—its adaptability is amazing!
Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, everyone will love this delightful treat.
Elevate your meal options with this delicious recipe!
Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage Ingredients
For the Rice
- Short Grain Sweet Rice – Essential for achieving that sticky texture; ensure it’s glutinous or labeled as sticky rice.
For the Toppings
- Chinese Sausage – Provides a unique sweet and salty flavor; easily found at Asian markets.
- Green Onion – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch; chop the dark green parts on a bias for best presentation.
- Pork Floss – Offers a delightful texture; can be purchased or homemade for a personal touch.
For the Seasoning
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce or Maggi – Use for enhancing the dish’s umami flavor; Maggi adds a rich depth that pairs beautifully.
- Oil – Helps to infuse the green onion flavor; opt for a neutral oil for the best results.
Bring this beloved Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage to your table for a truly heartwarming experience!
How to Make Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage
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Soak Rice: In a large bowl, cover 2 cups of sweet rice with 3-4 inches of water. Let it soak for 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse until the water runs clear for the best texture.
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Prepare Steamer: Line a steamer basket with perforated parchment or cheesecloth to prevent sticking. Place the rinsed rice into the steamer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for even cooking.
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Steam Rice: Cover and steam on medium heat for 45-60 minutes. Stir every 15-20 minutes for even cooking, and if it appears dry, add a splash of water.
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Add Sausage: During the last 15-20 minutes of steaming, carefully place 4 links of Chinese sausage on top of the rice and steam them together for a delightful infusion of flavors.
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Finish Rice: Once fully cooked, remove the sausage, slice it thinly, and set aside. The rice should be glossy, sticky, and tender.
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Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the chopped green onion with oil and microwave for 10-15 seconds to help release the flavors. Add soy sauce and the green onion mixture to the rice, stirring gently to combine everything.
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Serve: You can either assemble the dish by laying out the ingredients for individual servings or mix everything together. Top with additional pork floss and green onion for added texture and flavor.
Optional: Serve with pickled vegetables or chili paste for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days; this keeps the dish fresh and maintains its flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing to preserve its taste.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Packaging: If freezing, portion out the servings in individual containers for quick, easy meals that are perfect for busy days or a cozy night in.
What to Serve with Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage?
Imagine a vibrant table filled with delightful dishes that bring out the best in this beloved sticky rice recipe, creating a heartwarming feast.
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Pickled Vegetables: These tangy bites add a refreshing crunch that balances the savory flavors, making each mouthful exciting. A traditional accompaniment that complements the rich sausage beautifully!
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Chili Paste: For those who enjoy a kick, chili paste offers a burst of heat that elevates the overall flavor profile. Just a little dollop can transform the experience!
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Steamed Bok Choy: The mild flavor and crisp texture of bok choy provide a lovely contrast, bringing freshness to your plate. Drizzled with a hint of soy sauce, it becomes a perfect sidekick!
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Savory Egg Pancakes: These fluffy creations are a great way to incorporate additional protein while complementing the rice’s rich taste. Filled with green onions or shredded vegetables, they add a delightful texture.
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Fresh Cilantro and Lime: Bright herbs and citrus brighten up the dish, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming them. Simply sprinkle over the rice before serving for a burst of freshness!
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Iced Jasmine Tea: This aromatic tea refreshes the palate and enhances the meal without overshadowing the wonderful flavors of the sticky rice. Serve it with a slice of lime for a touch of zest.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet ending, this traditional dessert with creamy coconut milk ties in beautifully with the sticky rice theme, rounding off your meal with a luscious finish.
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage
- Soaking Time Matters: Allow the sticky rice to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure the right texture during steaming.
- Steaming Technique: Stir the rice every 15-20 minutes while steaming to promote even cooking; this prevents any clumps or dry patches.
- Flavor Infusion: Place the Chinese sausage on top of the rice during the last steaming phase to allow its rich flavors to meld with the sticky rice.
- Adjust Soy Sauce: Start with a smaller amount of low sodium soy sauce; you can always add more later if desired, avoiding an overly salty dish.
- Storage Savvy: For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Embark on your culinary journey with this delightful Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage!
Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe and make it your own!
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Protein Swap: Replace Chinese sausage with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for varied flavors. Each adds a unique twist that’s equally delightful.
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Vegetarian Delight: For a meat-free option, use shiitake mushrooms and marinated tempeh to bring rich umami and texture to the dish.
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Crispy Topping: Replace pork floss with crispy shallots or fried garlic for a wonderful crunch that complements the soft rice beautifully.
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Extra Vegetables: Toss in diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers during the last steaming phase for added nutrition and vibrant color.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh chili or a drizzle of sriracha to the soy sauce mixture for heat that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Coconut Essence: Stir in a splash of coconut milk while combining the ingredients for an aromatic twist that blends beautifully with the sticky rice.
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Herbal Infusion: Enhance the green onion flavor by adding fresh cilantro or Thai basil to the mix; it introduces lovely freshness and brightness.
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Savory Egg: Top your sticky rice with a fried or poached egg for extra protein and a delightful runny yolk that enhances each bite.
Make Ahead Options
Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage is an excellent choice for meal prep lovers! To save time, you can soak the sweet rice up to 24 hours in advance; just drain and rinse it before cooking. Additionally, the Chinese sausage can be sliced and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to delight your family with this dish, simply steam the soaked rice and sausage together according to the original instructions. To maintain quality, ensure the rice is tightly covered during steaming, and add a splash of water if it starts to dry out. Enjoy having a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort on busy days!
Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage?
For the best results, you should use short grain sweet rice, specifically glutinous or sticky rice. This type of rice has the perfect texture and stickiness that is characteristic of authentic Vietnamese sticky rice dishes.
How should I store leftover Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. To reheat, simply use a microwave with a damp paper towel covering the dish to help retain moisture, ensuring your delicious meal doesn’t dry out.
Can I freeze Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Make sure it has cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’s wise to portion it out into individual servings, making it easy to reheat on busy days.
What should I do if my sticky rice seems dry after steaming?
If your rice appears dry during steaming, simply add a splash of water and stir gently to redistribute the moisture. Keep the steamer covered while allowing the rice to finish cooking to ensure even moisture throughout.
Is there a gluten-free option for Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage?
Yes, to create a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Remember to omit the pork floss if you’re uncertain about gluten content in brand products; instead, consider using crispy shallots for added flavor and texture without gluten.
Can I add additional ingredients to the dish?
Very! You can swap out the Chinese sausage for other types of sausage or proteins like chicken or tofu. Additionally, consider incorporating cooked vegetables such as peas or carrots to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage.
Savor Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage Today!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, cover 2 cups of sweet rice with 3-4 inches of water. Let it soak for 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse until the water runs clear.
- Line a steamer basket with perforated parchment or cheesecloth to prevent sticking. Place the rinsed rice into the steamer.
- Cover and steam on medium heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 15-20 minutes.
- During the last 15-20 minutes of steaming, place 4 links of Chinese sausage on top of the rice.
- Once fully cooked, remove the sausage, slice it thinly, and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the chopped green onion with oil and microwave for 10-15 seconds. Add soy sauce and the green onion mixture to the rice.
- Serve by assembling the ingredients or mixing everything together. Top with additional pork floss and green onion.