Sticky Rice Waffles! Crispy, chewy textures all in one
STICKY RICE WAFFLES! Crispy, chewy textures all in one! is a medium Chinese recipe that serves 4. 260 calories per serving. Recipe by Lisa Lin on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 55 min | Total: 1 hr 30 min
Cost: $31.46 total, $7.87 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups Glutinous (Sticky) Rice (Rinsed until water runs clear; use a rice cooker)
- 2 cups Water (For cooking the rice; ratio 1:1 with glutinous rice)
- 1/4 cup Dried Seafood Mix (Typically dried shrimp and dried scallops, rehydrated briefly)
- 2 links Chinese Sausage (Lap Cheong) (Thinly sliced; adds sweet‑savory flavor)
- 2 Shallots (Finely minced)
- 1/2 cup Frozen Peas (Adds color and sweetness; thaw before use)
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Regular or low‑sodium; provides umami)
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (Adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (Finishing oil for aroma)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (For sautéing)
- 1/4 teaspoon White Pepper (Optional, for mild heat)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (Balances saltiness)
Instructions
Rinse and Cook Sticky Rice
Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Transfer to the rice cooker, add an equal amount of water, and start the cooking cycle.
Time: PT35M
Prepare Toppings
While the rice cooks, thinly slice the Chinese sausage, mince the shallots, and measure the dried seafood.
Time: PT5M
Sauté Aromatics and Protein
Heat 1 Tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the minced shallots and stir‑fry until translucent (≈2 min). Add the dried seafood and sliced Chinese sausage; stir‑fry 5‑7 minutes until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and sugar; coat everything evenly.
Time: PT7M
Add Peas
Add the frozen peas to the skillet and stir for 2 minutes until they are heated through.
Time: PT2M
Combine Rice and Toppings
When the rice is done, transfer it to a large mixing bowl and fluff with a fork. Add the sautéed mixture, tossing gently to distribute the sauce and ingredients evenly.
Time: PT5M
Cool and Refrigerate (Optional but Recommended)
Spread the rice mixture on a shallow tray, let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) so it firms up for easier waffle‑iron handling.
Time: PT0M
Grease the Waffle Iron
Lightly brush both plates of the pre‑heated waffle iron with a thin layer of oil.
Time: PT1M
Cook Sticky Rice Waffles
Scoop about ½ cup of the rice mixture onto the center of the waffle iron, close the lid, and cook for 6‑7 minutes until the exterior is golden‑brown and crisp. Repeat for remaining batches.
Time: PT14M
Serve
Remove the waffles, let them rest for a minute, then serve hot. They pair well with a simple soy‑vinegar dipping sauce or extra soy sauce on the side.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 260
- Protein
- 8 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 5 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Gluten‑Free (if using tamari), Pescatarian, Contains Pork
Allergens: Soy, Shellfish, Pork
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Glutinous (Sticky) Rice: Short‑grain sushi rice (will be less sticky)
- Instead of Dried Seafood Mix: Fresh shrimp (use 1/2 cup, chopped), Canned clams
- Instead of Chinese Sausage (Lap Cheong): Chorizo (for a smoky twist), Turkey sausage
- Instead of Shallots: Red onion (use half amount), Leeks
- Instead of Frozen Peas: Fresh peas, Edamame
- Instead of Soy Sauce: Tamari (gluten‑free), Coconut aminos
- Instead of Oyster Sauce: Hoisin sauce (half amount), Mushroom soy sauce
- Instead of Sesame Oil: Peanut oil (use less), Vegetable oil
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola oil, Sunflower oil
- Instead of White Pepper: Ground black pepper
- Instead of Sugar: Honey (use less), Maple syrup
Equipment Needed
- Rice Cooker
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Waffle Iron (non‑sweet)
- Silicone Brush (optional)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Spatula
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking the glutinous rice to the correct texture (soft but not mushy).
- Sautéing the dried seafood and Chinese sausage without over‑cooking.
- Ensuring the rice mixture is firm enough before placing it in the waffle iron.
- Cooking the waffles long enough to develop a golden crust without burning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra aroma, toast the sliced Chinese sausage in the skillet for a minute before adding the dried seafood.
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on the finished waffles adds a nutty finish.
- If you like heat, stir in a small dash of chili oil with the sauces.
Troubleshooting
Waffles are soggy and do not crisp.
Make sure the rice mixture is well‑chilled and firm before cooking. Increase waffle‑iron time by 1‑2 minutes and ensure the iron is fully pre‑heated.
Rice sticks to the waffle iron.
Apply a thin, even layer of oil to both plates before each batch. Lightly dust the rice mixture with a little cornstarch if sticking persists.
The interior of the waffle is too dry.
Do not over‑cook; remove the waffle as soon as the edges turn golden. You can also add a teaspoon of water to the rice mixture before scooping.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to regain crispness.
Freezer: Freeze cooked waffles on a parchment sheet, then transfer to a zip‑top bag; keep for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster oven.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours; rice can spoil.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the rice and topping mixture a day ahead and refrigerate; the firmer texture makes waffle‑iron cooking easier.
- Cook all waffles, let them cool, then freeze for quick snack portions later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of sticky rice waffles in Chinese cuisine?
Sticky rice (glutinous rice) is a staple in many Chinese celebrations, especially in southern regions where it is used for dishes like lo mai gai and rice cakes. Turning it into waffles is a modern, fusion twist that showcases the versatility of the grain while keeping the traditional flavors of dried seafood and Chinese sausage.
What are the traditional regional variations of sticky rice dishes in Chinese cuisine?
In Guangdong and Hong Kong, sticky rice is often steamed with Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and dried shrimp (lo mai gai). In Fujian, it may be flavored with soy sauce and served as a breakfast staple. The waffle format is a contemporary adaptation, but the core ingredients remain rooted in these regional traditions.
How is sticky rice traditionally served in southern Chinese households?
Traditionally, sticky rice is steamed in banana leaves or lotus leaves, creating a fragrant, slightly smoky parcel that is served warm as part of a family meal or at festivals. It is usually accompanied by soy‑based sauces and fresh vegetables.
What occasions or celebrations is sticky rice commonly associated with in Chinese culture?
Sticky rice dishes are popular during Lunar New Year, wedding banquets, and the Mid‑Autumn Festival because the grain symbolizes unity and prosperity. The sweet‑savory combination of sausage and dried seafood is especially favored at celebratory feasts.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Chinese sticky rice topping?
The authentic toppings include dried shrimp or scallops, Chinese lap cheong (sweet pork sausage), shallots, soy sauce, and sometimes fermented black beans. Fresh peas are a modern addition for color, but they complement the classic flavor profile.
What other Chinese dishes pair well with sticky rice waffles?
Sticky rice waffles pair nicely with a light soy‑vinegar dipping sauce, a simple cucumber salad, or a bowl of hot and sour soup. They also complement braised pork belly or steamed fish for a balanced meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making sticky rice waffles?
Common mistakes include using under‑cooked rice, which makes the waffles mushy, and over‑filling the waffle iron, which leads to uneven cooking. Also, neglecting to pre‑heat and oil the waffle iron can cause sticking and a lack of crispness.
Why does this recipe sauté dried seafood and Chinese sausage before mixing with the rice?
Sautéing releases the deep umami flavors of the dried seafood and caramelizes the sweet pork sausage, ensuring those aromas are evenly distributed throughout the rice. Adding the sauces after sautéing also prevents the rice from becoming soggy.
Can I make the sticky rice waffles ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Cook the waffles, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in a toaster oven to restore crispness.
What does the YouTube channel Lisa Lin specialize in?
The YouTube channel Lisa Lin focuses on creative Asian home‑cooking, offering approachable recipes that blend traditional flavors with modern twists, often featuring quick techniques and everyday kitchen tools.
How does the YouTube channel Lisa Lin's approach to Chinese cooking differ from other Chinese cooking channels?
Lisa Lin emphasizes simplicity and resourcefulness, using common household appliances like a waffle iron to reinvent classic dishes, whereas many other channels stick to traditional steaming or frying methods.
Last updated: August 28, 2026








