How to Cook Sticky Rice - Hot Soak Method

Step 1

Bring plenty of water to a FULL rolling boil; you need enough water to submerge your rice by about an inch.

Step 2

Meanwhile wash your sticky rice by placing the rice into a large mixing bowl, adding plenty of room temp water and swishing the rice around until the water is cloudy. Pour off the water and repeat the washing at least 3-4 times until the water runs mostly clear. Drain the rice well and then put the rice in a heatproof bowl.

Step 3

Pour the boiling water over the rice until it comes up to ½ - 1 inch above the rice. (You don't need to be precise, but don't add an excessive amount of water) Give the rice a stir to break up any lumps, then let it soak for 20 minutes.

Step 4

Meanwhile, set up your steamer and bring your steaming water to a boil. If using a cloth-lined steamer rack, make sure the cloth is wet so the rice won't stick to it. If using the bamboo cone steamer, soak the steaming basket beforehand also. (See the video tutorial above to see the correct set up if this is your first time steaming sticky rice.)

Step 5

Once the rice is done soaking, rinse the rice with cool tap water to remove any starch that might have come out during the soaking, then drain.

Step 6

Place the drained rice into your steamer, and use your finger to make a hole in the center to eliminate the "thick middle" that would take a longer time to cook. Steam over boiling water for 20-30 minutes depending on the amount of rice. Check the middle part of the rice, and if there are no more opaque centers, it's done and ready to serve!

Step 7

Serving tip: Keep the rice covered with a tea towel while it's on the table so it will stay warm and moist.