Yaksik, also known as "medicinal rice," is a traditional Korean dessert made with glutinous rice, dried fruits, and nuts, all sweetened with honey or brown sugar. This dish has a long history in Korea and is often enjoyed during special occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and holidays like the Lunar New Year (Seollal). The name "Yaksik" comes from the word "Yak," which means medicine, reflecting the belief that this sweet dish has health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Yaksik at home, along with some tips, variations, and calorie information.
Ingredients
To make Yaksik, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of glutinous rice (sweet rice)
- 3 tablespoons of pine nuts
- 3 tablespoons of chopped walnuts
- 3 tablespoons of dried jujubes (Korean dates)
- 3 tablespoons of dried chestnuts
- 1/4 cup of raisins
- 1/4 cup of honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 2 cups of water
- A pinch of salt
Preparation and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 2 hours, then drain.
- Remove the seeds from the dried jujubes and cut them into thin strips.
- Soak the dried chestnuts in warm water for 30 minutes to soften them, then peel and slice them.
- Lightly toast the pine nuts and walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Cook the Rice:
- In a large pot or rice cooker, add the soaked glutinous rice and 2 cups of water. Cook the rice until it becomes sticky and fully cooked, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Prepare the Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey (or brown sugar), soy sauce, cinnamon powder, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring constantly. Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, toasted nuts, dried fruits, and the syrup. Mix everything thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated with the syrup and the ingredients are well-distributed.
Steam the Yaksik:
- Transfer the rice mixture to a steaming dish or a heatproof bowl. Press the mixture down firmly to remove any air pockets. Steam the Yaksik over boiling water for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve the Yaksik:
- After steaming, let the Yaksik cool slightly before slicing it into small, bite-sized pieces. Yaksik can be served warm or at room temperature. It's often enjoyed as a dessert or a snack with tea.
Tips
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or sugar to suit your taste.
- Nut Alternatives: If you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Storage: Yaksik can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Variations
- Citrus Zest: Add a bit of orange or lemon zest to the syrup for a refreshing twist.
- Flavored Syrup: Infuse the syrup with ginger or cinnamon sticks while heating for added depth of flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version of Yaksik.
Calorie Information
Yaksik is a relatively calorie-dense dessert due to its ingredients, especially the glutinous rice, nuts, and sweeteners. On average, a small serving (about 100g) of Yaksik contains approximately 250-300 calories. The exact calorie count may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Conclusion
Yaksik is a delightful Korean dessert that combines the rich flavors of glutinous rice, nuts, and dried fruits with a sweet and slightly savory syrup. Its chewy texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect treat for special occasions or simply as a comforting snack. With its easy-to-follow recipe and versatile variations, Yaksik can be a unique addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a taste of Korean tradition in every bite. Enjoy this delicious dessert, and don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients to make it your own!
