Q: Can I make Ba Bao Fan without a steamer?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a heatproof bowl set inside a large pot with a rack and lid. Just be sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water, and steam gently for 40–45 minutes. It may take a bit more monitoring, but it works just fine.

Q: Why is it called Eight-Treasure Rice?

Great question. The name comes from the eight symbolic toppings used in a traditional Ba Bao Fan recipe . In Chinese culture, the number eight brings good luck. Each ingredient—like red dates or peanuts—represents a blessing, such as happiness or prosperity.

Q: How long can I store Ba Bao Fan?

Once cooked, you can store Ba Bao Fan in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam it again or microwave it with a damp cloth on top to restore moisture.

Q: Is it served hot or cold?

Traditionally, it's served warm—steamed fresh or reheated. But some folks enjoy it chilled, especially during summer festivals.

The Best Traditional Ba Bao Fan Recipe for Celebrations

Name: The Best Traditional Ba Bao Fan Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 cup glutinous rice (sweet rice); 1/2 cup red bean paste; 2 tbsp golden raisins; 2 tbsp black raisins; 4 dried red dates; 2 tbsp goji berries; 2 tbsp candied mango strips; 2 tbsp dried longan; 2 tbsp walnuts or pine nuts; 2 tbsp honey or light syrup; Water for soaking/steaming

Description

A festive and symbolic Chinese dessert made with sticky rice, red bean paste, and a vibrant medley of dried fruits and nuts—perfect for Lunar New Year and special celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups glutinous rice
1/2 cup purple sticky rice (optional)
1 cup red bean paste
1/4 cup red dates
1/4 cup lotus seeds
1/4 cup dried longan
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup walnuts
1/4 cup peanuts
1/4 cup candied melon
1/4 cup goji berries
2 tbsp sugar (optional)
1/4 cup coconut milk (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Soak glutinous rice (and purple rice if using) in water for 4–6 hours or overnight. Drain before use.
Steam the rice for 30–40 minutes until cooked through and sticky.
Prepare red bean paste by cooking adzuki beans with sugar until soft, then mashing into a smooth paste (or use store-bought).
In a heatproof bowl or mold, arrange a mix of eight treasures decoratively at the bottom.
Press half of the steamed rice on top of the treasures.
Spread red bean paste evenly over the rice layer.
Top with the remaining rice and press down firmly.
Steam the assembled dish for another 30–40 minutes.
Let cool slightly, then invert onto a serving plate and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, always soak the rice beforehand and steam rather than boil for the ideal chewy texture. Balance the toppings for flavor and symbolism.

Prep Time: 6 hours (includes soaking)
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Steaming
Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 68g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg