Tangyuan (汤圆) are glutinous rice balls traditionally enjoyed in Chinese festivals, particularly the Lantern Festival and Winter Solstice Festival. They symbolize family unity and togetherness, as their round shape represents completeness and harmony.

Tangyuan can be served plain, filled, or in sweet soup, offering a chewy texture and delightful fillings ranging from sesame paste to red bean paste.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Dough:

200g glutinous rice flour

100ml water (adjust as needed)

A pinch of salt


Common Fillings (Optional):

50g black sesame paste

50g red bean paste

50g peanut paste


Sweet Soup (Optional):

4 cups water

50g rock sugar (or adjust to taste)

2–3 slices ginger

Optional: pandan leaves for fragrance

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and a pinch of salt.

Gradually add water while kneading until a smooth, pliable dough forms.

Cover and let it rest for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Fillings (if using)

Roll fillings into small balls about 1–1.5 cm in diameter.

Set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Tangyuan

Pinch a small piece of dough (about 15–20g).

Flatten it into a disc.

Place a filling ball in the center, then carefully wrap the dough around it.

Roll gently to form a smooth, round ball.

Repeat until all dough and fillings are used.

Step 4: Cook the Tangyuan

Bring a pot of water to boil.

Gently drop Tangyuan into boiling water.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cook until Tangyuan float to the surface plus an additional 2–3 minutes for the filling to heat through.

Step 5: Prepare Sweet Soup (Optional)

In a separate pot, boil water with ginger slices and rock sugar.

Add pandan leaves for aroma if desired.

Pour cooked Tangyuan into the sweet soup and serve warm.

🌿 Tips & Variations

Filling Options: Black sesame, red bean, peanut, chocolate, or even fruit preserves.

Soup Variations: Serve Tangyuan in plain water, sweet ginger soup, coconut milk, or osmanthus syrup.

Texture: Ensure dough is soft but not sticky. Dust hands with flour to prevent sticking.

Unfilled Tangyuan: Can be enjoyed plain for a simpler version.

🍚 Serving & Experience

Tangyuan are soft, chewy, and comforting, with a sweet surprise inside if filled. They are a symbol of family reunion and are perfect for festive occasions, celebrations, or cozy winter evenings.

Serving Tangyuan in ginger-infused sweet soup warms both the body and heart, making this dish a timeless classic in Chinese cuisine.