Steamed Layered Rice Cake Kue Lapis
Steamed Layered Rice Cake Kue Lapis is a easy Asian recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by VeganBunnyElle on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 50 min
Cost: $2.65 total, $0.66 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Rice Flour (fine rice flour)
- 1 cup Water (room temperature)
- 2 cups Mixed Leafy Greens (finely chopped (e.g., kale, spinach, bok choy, mustard greens, Swiss chard))
- 0.5 tsp Salt (fine sea salt)
- 1 tsp Olive Oil (for greasing steamer basket)
Instructions
Chop Greens
Wash the five leafy greens thoroughly, pat dry, and finely chop them.
Time: PT5M
Make Batter
In the mixing bowl combine rice flour, water, salt, and the chopped greens. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and pourable.
Time: PT10M
Prepare Steamer
Fill the steamer pot with about 2 inches of water, bring to a boil, and line the steamer basket with parchment paper. Lightly brush the parchment with olive oil.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 100°C
Steam Rice Cakes
Pour the batter onto the parchment, spreading evenly. Cover and steam for 15 minutes until the cakes are set and firm to the touch.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 100°C
Cool and Serve
Remove the steamer basket, let the cakes cool for 5 minutes, then cut into squares or wedges.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 3g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 2g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, No Sugar, No Artificial Sweetener
Allergens: None
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Rice Flour: Gluten‑Free All‑Purpose Flour
- Instead of Mixed Leafy Greens: any leafy greens
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting Board
- Chef Knife
- Steamer Pot with Rack
- Parchment Paper
- Spatula (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensure batter consistency is smooth and pourable
- Steam at a rolling boil without opening the lid early
- Allow cakes to cool slightly before cutting to prevent breaking
Chef Tips from the Video
- Mix a variety of crunchy and tender greens for texture contrast
- Line the steamer with parchment to prevent sticking and make removal easy
- Drizzle a little toasted sesame oil over the finished cakes for extra flavor
Troubleshooting
Cakes are too dense or gummy
Add an extra tablespoon of water to loosen the batter and steam a minute longer.
Cakes fall apart when cutting
Steam for an additional 2‑3 minutes until fully set; let them cool slightly before slicing.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped for up to 1 month
Room temperature: Best eaten the same day; can sit at room temperature for up to 6 hours
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the batter a day ahead and keep it refrigerated; steam when ready
- Reheat leftovers in a steamer for 3‑4 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of rice cakes in Asian cuisine?
Rice cakes have been a staple across East and Southeast Asia for centuries, originally created as a way to preserve rice and provide a portable, filling food. They appear in festivals, daily meals, and religious offerings, symbolizing prosperity and unity.
What are the traditional regional variations of rice cakes in Asian cuisine?
In China, steamed rice cakes (mi gao) are often plain or flavored with red bean; in Korea, tteok comes in sweet and savory forms; in Japan, mochi is pounded rice. Each region adds local ingredients—such as herbs, beans, or nuts—to create distinct textures and flavors.
How are rice cakes traditionally served in Asian cultures?
Steamed rice cakes are typically served warm, either plain or with dipping sauces like soy, chili oil, or fermented bean paste. They can accompany soups, be sliced for stir‑fries, or enjoyed as a snack during tea time.
What occasions or celebrations feature rice cakes in Asian cultures?
Rice cakes are central to Lunar New Year celebrations, Korean harvest festivals (Chuseok), and Japanese New Year (mochi). They symbolize good luck, abundance, and the hope for a sweet year ahead.
How does this Leafy Green Rice Cakes recipe fit into the broader Asian cuisine tradition?
This recipe follows the classic steaming technique used for many Asian rice cakes while adding a modern, plant‑based twist with five nutrient‑dense leafy greens, aligning with contemporary vegan trends yet honoring traditional methods.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Asian rice cakes versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional rice cakes use glutinous rice flour or whole‑grain rice flour and water. In this vegan version, plain rice flour is used, and leafy greens are added for nutrition. Substitutes like gluten‑free all‑purpose flour or other greens work without compromising the dish’s essence.
What other Asian dishes pair well with Leafy Green Rice Cakes?
These cakes pair beautifully with soy‑ginger dipping sauce, a light miso soup, or a crisp cucumber salad. They also complement stir‑fried tofu, kimchi, or a simple broth‑based noodle bowl.
What makes Leafy Green Rice Cakes special or unique in vegan Asian cuisine?
The inclusion of five different leafy greens adds a burst of color, texture, and micronutrients that traditional rice cakes lack. The recipe remains sugar‑free and completely plant‑based, offering a wholesome alternative for health‑focused diners.
How has the vegan version of rice cakes evolved over time in Asian cuisine?
As plant‑based diets gained popularity, chefs began experimenting with adding vegetables, legumes, and alternative flours to classic rice cake recipes. This evolution reflects a shift toward nutrient‑dense, low‑sugar dishes while preserving the beloved steaming technique.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Leafy Green Rice Cakes?
Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, which can make the cakes gummy, and opening the steamer too early, which causes the cakes to collapse. Also, using too much water will result in a soggy texture.
How do I know when the Leafy Green Rice Cakes are done cooking?
The cakes are done when they feel firm to the touch, the surface is no longer wet, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. They should also have a slightly translucent appearance.
What does the YouTube channel VeganBunnyElle specialize in?
The YouTube channel VeganBunnyElle specializes in wholesome, plant‑based recipes that are free from refined sugars and artificial sweeteners, focusing on nutrient‑dense meals, snacks, and desserts for a healthy vegan lifestyle.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
