Steamed pork & rice balls

Steamed pork & rice balls are savory morsels made from tender ground pork mixed with scallions and ginger, coated in rice, and gently steamed. This dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect as an appetizer or main meal.

13 Nov 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 75 min

Ingredients:

1 cup white rice
14 oz ground pork
1/2 cup scallions
2 tsp coriander leaves
2 tbsp ginger root

Steamed pork and rice balls are a delightful and savory dish that combines tender ground pork with aromatic herbs and spices, all rolled into rice-coated balls. This dish is perfect for a nutritious and flavorsome meal that is sure to impress family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
- Rinse the white rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Drain the rice thoroughly and spread it out on a large plate or baking sheet to air dry while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Pork Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, scallions, coriander leaves, and minced ginger root.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

3. Form the Pork Balls:
- With wet hands, take a small portion of the pork mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it into a ball.
- Repeat the process until all the pork mixture has been used. You should be able to make approximately 20-24 balls.

4. Coat the Pork Balls with Rice:
- Roll each pork ball in the prepared rice, pressing gently to ensure the rice adheres well to the meat.
- Place the rice-coated pork balls on a plate or tray.

5. Prepare the Steamer:
- Fill a large pot or wok with water and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Line a steamer basket with a piece of parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

6. Steam the Pork & Rice Balls:
- Place the rice-coated pork balls in the steamer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other.
- Cover and steam over boiling water for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the pork is fully cooked through. The rice should turn translucent when done.

7. Serve:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the steamer basket from the heat.
- Transfer the steamed pork and rice balls to a serving platter.
- Garnish with extra scallions or coriander leaves if desired.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve the steamed pork and rice balls hot, as an appetizer or a main dish. They can be accompanied by a dipping sauce such as soy sauce, chili sauce, or a ginger-garlic dipping sauce.

Steamed pork and rice balls are an easy-to-make yet incredibly flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite at your dining table. By following the provided tips, you can create perfectly steamed, succulent pork balls with a delightful coating of tender rice. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal with family and friends!

Steamed pork & rice balls FAQ:

What is the optimal cooking time for the steamed pork and rice balls?

Steam the pork and rice balls for 25-30 minutes. Ensure they are cooked through and the rice appears translucent when done.

How can I tell if the pork balls are fully cooked?

Check that the internal temperature of the pork balls reaches at least 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption, and the rice should become translucent.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it may require a longer cooking time, and the texture will differ from white rice.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover steamed pork and rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I use if I don't have coriander leaves?

If you don't have coriander leaves, you can substitute with fresh parsley or omit it entirely, though this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Tips:

- Ensure the rice is well-rinsed and soaked for about 30 minutes before using, as this helps it stick better to the pork balls.

- Use freshly ground pork for the best texture and flavor.

- Chop the scallions and coriander leaves finely to ensure even distribution of flavors in the meat mixture.

- Grate the ginger root finely to incorporate its flavor thoroughly into the pork mixture.

- Steam the pork balls over simmering water rather than boiling, to ensure they cook evenly and retain moisture.

- Serve with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar and chili oil, for added flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 520kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 1.22g
Sugar 1.08g
Fat 22g

Steamed pork & rice balls