Eight Treasures Rice Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 c glutinous rice rinsed and drained
• 1 c water
• 4 tsp oil
• 2 Tbsp sugar
• 4 dates
• 2 Tbsp raisins
• 8 to 10 lotus seeds optional
• 4 red cherries
• 4 green cherries
• 23 c red bean paste

Directions

1. Cook rice with 1 cup water over high heat until boiling Reduce heat to low cover and simmer 25 to 30 minutes
2. Fluff rice
3. Add oil and sugar to cooked rice and mix well
4. Arrange fruits artistically around bottom and sides of a greased 1-quart bowl
5. Spread 13 of cooked rice over fruits and press lightly to form a layer
6. Place 13 cup red bean paste on top of rice and spread evenly
7. Then place another 13 of rice and remaining 13 cup red bean paste to form alternate layers
8. Cover with remaining 13 of rice
9. If you can prepare this in advance and refrigerate Steam for 35 to 40 minutes over medium heat for 1 hour Replenish the water in the steamer if necessary
10. While rice is steaming combine syrup mixture in a saucepan
11. Cook over medium heat until thickened
12. Keep warm
13. To unmold invert bowl of pudding over a deep platter
14. Slice the pudding
15. Pour the syrup over it and serve