Thai Savory Sticky Rice Mornings

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

2. 2

   Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or banana leaves. Tie the pandan leaves together and place them on top of the rice. Steam the rice for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.

   ~25 min
3. 3

   While the rice is steaming, prepare the coconut milk mixture. In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat gently until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Do not boil.

   ~5 min
4. 4

   Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Pour the warm coconut milk mixture over the hot rice and gently fold to combine. Cover the bowl and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the liquid.

   ~20 min
5. 5

   Meanwhile, prepare the savory topping. Finely chop the dried shrimp. In a mortar and pestle (or a food processor), pound the shallots, garlic, cilantro roots, and white peppercorns into a paste.

   ~10 min
6. 6

   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the pounded paste and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.

   ~8 min
7. 7

   Stir in the chopped dried shrimp, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together and the mixture is slightly thickened.

   ~3 min
8. 8

   To serve, portion the sticky rice onto individual plates. Top generously with the savory pork and dried shrimp mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and fried shallots.