Rice Dumplings (Zongzi, 粽子) are glutinous rice parcels wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, traditionally eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival (Duanwu Festival). They are sticky, flavorful, and versatile, with fillings that range from savory (pork, mushrooms, salted egg yolk) to sweet (red bean, dates, or lotus seed paste).

Zongzi are cherished for their aromatic flavor from the leaves and their hearty, comforting texture, making them a symbol of tradition and family unity.

📝 Ingredients (Makes 6–8 Zongzi)

For the Savory Filling:

200g glutinous rice, soaked 4–6 hours

150g pork belly, diced

4 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and sliced

2 salted egg yolks, halved (optional)

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp oyster sauce

1 tsp five-spice powder

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp sesame oil


For Wrapping:

8–10 bamboo leaves, soaked and softened

Kitchen string for tying

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Soak glutinous rice for at least 4 hours. Drain before use.

Soak bamboo leaves in warm water until pliable.

Marinate diced pork with soy sauce, oyster sauce, five-spice powder, sugar, and sesame oil for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Assemble the Zongzi

Take 2–3 bamboo leaves, overlapping to form a cone.

Add a spoonful of glutinous rice into the cone.

Add a portion of pork, mushrooms, and salted egg yolk.

Cover with more rice to fill the cone.

Fold the leaves over tightly and secure with kitchen string.

Step 3: Cook the Zongzi

Place Zongzi in a large pot and cover with water.

Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2–3 hours for savory Zongzi.

Ensure water covers the Zongzi throughout cooking.

Remove and let cool slightly before unwrapping.

Step 4: Serve

Serve warm.

Enjoy the sticky, flavorful rice with aromatic bamboo leaf fragrance and savory filling.

🌿 Tips & Variations

Leaf Choice: Bamboo leaves are traditional; lotus leaves can also be used.

Filling Variations: Sweet Zongzi can include red bean paste, dates, or chestnuts.

Cooking Method: Can also be steamed for 4–5 hours for a slightly softer texture.

Storage: Zongzi can be refrigerated and reheated by steaming or boiling.

🍚 Serving & Experience

Zongzi are hearty, fragrant, and satisfying, with a unique blend of textures and flavors.

They are a festive favorite, perfect for family gatherings and celebrations, and showcase the rich tradition and culinary artistry of Chinese cuisine.