Chinese Eight-Treasure Rice (Ba Bao Fan)

Rinse the glutinous rice several times until the water runs clear, then soak it for at least 2 hours. Afterwards, steam or boil it until completely tender.

Chop the dried apricots, dates, and larger dried fruits into small pieces. If they are too dry, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then pat dry.

Mix the hot cooked rice with the butter, honey, a pinch of salt, raisins, apricots, cranberries, and half of the nuts. Stir gently to combine.

Decorate a mold or deep bowl with the remaining dried fruits and nuts, then press the rice mixture firmly into the mold using a spoon. Cover and steam for another 15–20 minutes.