Tangyuan (汤圆)
21/03/2025
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Tangyuan (汤圆) is a beloved Chinese dessert consisting of glutinous rice balls served in a sweet soup. These chewy, soft rice balls are often filled with sweet or savory fillings and are traditionally eaten during the Lantern Festival, symbolizing family togetherness and unity. However, many enjoy this dessert year-round for its delightful taste and comforting texture.
Texture
Texture
Tangyuan has a soft, bouncy texture that becomes smooth and slightly gooey when bitten into. The glutinous rice flour gives it a satisfying chewiness, while the sweet soup complements its delicate taste. Some variations include clear ginger syrup, while others are served in a thicker, sweetened broth.
A Personal Memory
A Personal Memory
For me, tangyuan is more than just a dessert—it’s a reminder of childhood celebrations. I remember sitting around the kitchen table with my grandma and cousin, rolling tiny rice balls in different colour together, our hands dusted in glutinous rice flour. The warmth of the sweet ginger soup and the nutty black sesame filling always made me feel at home. Even now, every bite takes me back to those joyful moments.
Fillings
Fillings
The fillings inside tangyuan add to their appeal, offering a burst of flavour with every bite. Some of the most common fillings include:
Black sesame – A rich, nutty paste that melts in your mouth.
Peanut – A sweet, crunchy, and slightly salty combination.
Red bean paste – A smooth and naturally sweet filling that pairs well with the soft rice ball.
No filling – Some people enjoy plain tangyuan in a flavourful soup.
How to Make Tangyuan at Home？
How to Make Tangyuan at Home？
If you’d like to try making tangyuan, here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 cup black sesame paste (or preferred filling)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 4 cups water (for soup)
- 3 slices ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix glutinous rice flour with water to form a soft dough.
2. Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each one.
3. Place a small amount of filling in the centre, then carefully seal and roll into a smooth ball.
4. Boil water with ginger and sugar to create the sweet soup.
5. Drop the tangyuan into the boiling water and cook until they float (about 3–5 minutes).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tangyuan in Modern Times
Tangyuan in Modern Times
Tangyuan is more than just a dessert—it carries cultural significance and is a delightful way to celebrate togetherness. Whether enjoyed during a festival or as a comforting treat, these chewy rice balls bring joy with every bite. Have you tried tangyuan before? Let us know your favourite flavour!
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