Lotus Leaf Rice is a classic Chinese dish known for its fragrant aroma, rich fillings, and beautiful presentation. This traditional recipe features sticky rice mixed with savory ingredients such as chicken, Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and seasonings, all wrapped in a dried lotus leaf and steamed to perfection.

The lotus leaf imparts a unique herbal fragrance to the rice, making the dish incredibly aromatic and flavorful. Lotus Leaf Rice is often served in dim sum restaurants and during special family gatherings, especially in southern Chinese cuisine.

What is Lotus Leaf Rice?

Lotus Leaf Rice (also known as Lo Mai Gai) is a Cantonese dim sum dish made with glutinous rice and savory fillings wrapped inside a lotus leaf. The wrapped parcel is then steamed, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors of the meat, sauces, and the lotus leaf itself.

When the leaf is opened, a wonderful aroma is released, revealing soft sticky rice packed with flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups glutinous (sticky) rice
2 dried lotus leaves
200 g chicken thigh, diced
1 Chinese sausage (lap cheong), sliced
4 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and chopped

Seasoning

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon white pepper

Thickening Sauce

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Garnish (optional)

chopped green onions

Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Rice

Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 2 hours to soften it.

Step 2: Prepare the Lotus Leaves

Soak the dried lotus leaves in warm water for about 20 minutes until they become soft and flexible. Rinse gently to remove any dirt.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the diced chicken, Chinese sausage, and chopped mushrooms.

Add:

soy sauce
oyster sauce
sugar
white pepper

Cook until the chicken is fully done.

Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 4: Prepare the Sticky Rice

Steam the soaked glutinous rice for about 20 minutes until partially cooked.

Drizzle sesame oil and a small amount of soy sauce over the rice and mix well.

Step 5: Assemble the Lotus Leaf Parcels

Lay a softened lotus leaf flat. Place a layer of sticky rice in the center, add a portion of the cooked filling, then cover with another layer of rice.

Fold the lotus leaf around the rice to create a sealed parcel.

Step 6: Steam the Parcels

Place the wrapped parcels into a steamer and steam for another 20–25 minutes until the rice becomes fully cooked and infused with flavor.

Step 7: Serve

Carefully open the lotus leaf and serve the rice hot.

Tips for Perfect Lotus Leaf Rice

Use Glutinous Rice

Sticky rice is essential for achieving the traditional chewy texture.

Soak the Lotus Leaves Properly

Soft leaves are easier to wrap and release more fragrance during steaming.

Balance the Filling

A mix of meat, mushrooms, and sausage creates the best flavor.

Do Not Overfill

Too much filling may make the parcels difficult to wrap.

Popular Variations

Chicken Lotus Leaf Rice

The most common version made with diced chicken.

Seafood Lotus Leaf Rice

Includes shrimp and scallops for a seafood flavor.

Vegetarian Lotus Leaf Rice

Uses tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables instead of meat.

Festival Lotus Leaf Rice

A richer version often prepared during celebrations.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 58 g
Fat: 12 g

What to Serve with Lotus Leaf Rice

Lotus Leaf Rice pairs wonderfully with:

Chinese steamed vegetables
Light soup such as wonton soup
Stir-fried greens
Dim sum dishes

These side dishes complement the rich and aromatic sticky rice.

Final Thoughts

Lotus Leaf Rice is a beautiful example of traditional Chinese cooking that combines aroma, texture, and flavor in one dish. The fragrant lotus leaf, sticky rice, and savory filling create a comforting meal that is both satisfying and memorable.

Whether served at dim sum restaurants or prepared at home for family gatherings, this classic dish continues to be a favorite in Chinese cuisine.