Chinese Creamy Walnut Dessert Soup (合桃糊) is a warm and comforting dessert known for its smooth, rich texture and nutty flavor. Made primarily from ground walnuts, this velvety dessert is traditionally served during colder months or as a nourishing treat to boost energy. Often enjoyed for its health benefits, especially for promoting good skin and improving brain function, this dessert is naturally sweetened and creamy, making it the perfect end to a meal or a mid-day snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts (shelled)
- 1/4 cup rice (soaked overnight)
- 4-5 cups water (or adjust to desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup rock sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp glutinous rice flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1-2 tbsp honey or sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Pinch of salt (to balance sweetness)
Directions:
- Soak the Walnuts:
- Rinse the walnuts and soak them in water for 2-3 hours to soften them. This makes blending them easier and enhances the flavor.
- Prepare the Rice:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water and soak it overnight or for at least 4 hours.
- Cook the Rice:
- In a pot, add the soaked rice and enough water to cook it, about 1.5-2 cups. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the rice is soft and fully cooked (about 15-20 minutes).
- Blend the Walnuts:
- Drain the soaked walnuts and place them in a blender or food processor.
- Add about 2-3 cups of water and blend until smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Make the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, combine the walnut mixture, the cooked rice, and the remaining water (1.5-2 cups, or adjust for a thinner or thicker consistency).
- Stir the mixture well and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sweeten and Thicken:
- Add rock sugar, honey, or sugar to the soup, adjusting to your preferred level of sweetness. Stir until fully dissolved.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a little glutinous rice flour with water to make a slurry and add it to the pot, stirring constantly until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the soup reaches the desired thickness and sweetness, remove it from the heat.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with a tiny pinch of salt (optional, to balance the sweetness), and enjoy the comforting, creamy walnut dessert soup.
This Chinese Creamy Walnut Dessert Soup (合桃糊) is a delicious, nutty, and nutritious dessert that offers a perfect blend of warmth and richness. It’s not only tasty but also packed with health benefits, making it a comforting treat for both the body and soul.
