Revitalize Your Health with These Easy and Exquisite Chinese Health-Boosting Desserts
In the world of culinary delights, Chinese desserts stand out for their unique blend of flavors and health benefits. These traditional sweets not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer numerous health benefits. From nourishing your body to soothing your soul, these delicious and rejuvenating desserts are perfect for anyone looking to boost their health. In this article, we will explore some easy-to-make Chinese health-boosting desserts that will leave you feeling revitalized.
1. Red Bean Paste with Rice Balls (Zongzi)
Zongzi, or rice dumplings, are a popular Chinese dessert during the Dragon Boat Festival. Made with sticky rice, red bean paste, and wrapped in bamboo leaves, these delightful treats are packed with nutrients. Red beans are rich in fiber, iron, and protein, while sticky rice is an excellent source of energy. To make red bean paste with rice balls, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sticky rice
- 1 cup red bean paste
- 10 bamboo leaves
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Soak the sticky rice and bamboo leaves in water for at least 2 hours.
2. Steam the rice and bamboo leaves for 30 minutes.
3. Place a tablespoon of red bean paste in the center of a bamboo leaf.
4. Wrap the rice around the red bean paste and seal it tightly.
5. Steam the rice balls for another 30 minutes.
2. Sweet Potato Soup (Hong Shao Gao)
Sweet potato soup, also known as hong shao gao, is a comforting and nourishing dessert that's perfect for cold weather. This dish is made with sweet potatoes, goji berries, and other health-boosting ingredients. The sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber, while goji berries are known for their immune-boosting properties. Here's how to make this delightful soup:
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup goji berries
- 1/4 cup rock sugar
- 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into cubes.
2. In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the sweet potatoes.
3. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add the goji berries and rock sugar, and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
3. Almond and Honey Paste (Shan Zha Gao)
Almond and honey paste is a popular Chinese dessert that is both delicious and healthy. Almonds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a great snack for weight loss and overall health. Honey, on the other hand, is a natural sweetener with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Here's how to make this delightful paste:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rock sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Soak the almonds in water for 2 hours.
2. Drain the water and grind the almonds into a paste using a food processor.
3. Add honey, rock sugar, and water to the almond paste.
4. Mix well until you get a smooth and thick paste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
4. Brown Sugar and Walnuts (Huo Sha Gao)
This is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of brown sugar and walnuts. Brown sugar is rich in calcium, potassium, and magnesium, while walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Here's how to make this indulgent treat:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a pot, combine brown sugar and water. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
2. Add cornstarch and vegetable oil to the boiling mixture, and stir until it becomes thick and translucent.
3. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped walnuts.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
In conclusion, Chinese health-boosting desserts offer a delightful way to nourish your body and mind. With their rich flavors and health benefits, these desserts are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, go ahead and try these easy-to-make desserts and enjoy their rejuvenating effects.
