Xoi Gac (Red Sticky Rice)

🛒 Ingredients

• Glutinous Rice (Sticky Rice) 100 g · 350 kcal
• Gac fruit pulp 30 g · 20 kcal
• Coconut Milk 40 g · 76 kcal
• Granulated Sugar 15 g · 60 kcal
• Coconut Oil 5 g · 45 kcal

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for at least 4-8 hours or overnight; drain well before use.
2. Separate the red arils from the gac fruit seeds, or use prepared gac pulp; mash it gently with a small amount of coconut oil or a spoonful of sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine the drained glutinous rice with the mashed gac pulp, granulated sugar, and salt; mix thoroughly until the rice grains are evenly coated with the vibrant red color.
4. Add the coconut milk to the rice mixture and stir well to combine; this adds richness and moisture to the xoi.
5. Transfer the seasoned rice mixture to a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or banana leaves; ensure it's spread evenly.
6. Steam the rice over rapidly boiling water for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chewy; halfway through, you may stir it gently to ensure even cooking.
7. Once cooked, remove the xoi gac from the steamer, lightly fluff it with a fork, and then lightly coat it with a little more coconut oil for extra shine and flavor.
8. Serve hot or warm, often molded into decorative shapes or served simply in bowls; it can be enjoyed as a sweet snack or a festive side dish.