How to Make Eight-treasure Rice Pudding
By admin on 2014-12-16

Instructions:
1. Mix the chopped dates with the red bean paste.

2. Rinse the rice, drain, then place in a 2 litre (3 1/2 pint) saucepan and add the cold water. Bring to the boil, then simmer for about 25 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of lard (or shortening) and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix well.

3. Grease a 1.2 litre (2 pint) heatproof bowl or pudding mold and line it with three-quarters of the cooked rice. Spoon the bean paste mixture on to the rice and then place the remaining rice on top. Spread the rice evently and press down flat with the palm of your hand. Put a plate over the bowl (or mold) and unmould the pudding carefully onto a serving dish.

4. Decorate the top of the pudding with the angelica, red and green glace cherries and flaked almonds in an attractive pattern. Cover the pudding with plastic wrap then put the original bowl back over the pudding and turn it back into the bowl. Remove the plate and cover the top with plastic wrap. Steam the pudding for at least 1 hour. The pudding can be reheated.

5. While the pudding is steaming make up the syrup. Combine the sugar and water in a small pan and boil until the sugar dissolves. add the almond extract. Blend the cornflour and water and stir in to thicken the sauce.

6. When ready to serve, unmould the pudding carefully and peel off the plastic wrap. Pour the hot syrup over the top and serve at once.