Sweet Pumpkin Simmered in Rice Syrup
Soft Stewed Pumpkin with Sweet Rice Syrup
This pumpkin dish, simmered until tender and coated in sweet rice syrup, is a delightful side dish and a healthy snack. Its chewy yet soft texture is exceptional, and the subtle sweetness fills your mouth, bringing a wave of pleasant happiness.
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized pumpkin
Seasoning
- 4-5 Tbsp rice syrup (adjust according to pumpkin’s sweetness and your preference)
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup or sugar (for marinating the pumpkin)
- 4-5 Tbsp rice syrup (adjust according to pumpkin’s sweetness and your preference)
- 2 Tbsp corn syrup or sugar (for marinating the pumpkin)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the pumpkin thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds and stringy insides with a spoon until clean. Chop the prepared pumpkin into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 cm thick). Place the chopped pumpkin into a resealable container or a thick plastic bag. Add 2 tablespoons of corn syrup or sugar. Seal the bag tightly and gently shake to coat the pumpkin pieces evenly without mashing them. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This process helps the pumpkin release its natural moisture, allowing it to absorb the simmering sauce better and become more tender.
Step 2
Discard the liquid that has accumulated from marinating the pumpkin overnight. This step prevents the simmered dish from tasting diluted and allows the natural flavor of the pumpkin to shine through more intensely.
Step 3
In a pot with a thick bottom, arrange the drained pumpkin pieces with the skin side facing upwards, stacking them neatly. Arranging them this way helps prevent the pumpkin from breaking apart during cooking and maintains its shape. Generously pour 4-5 tablespoons of rice syrup over the pumpkin pieces. You can substitute rice syrup with corn syrup or other types of syrup, but the mild and deep sweetness of rice syrup pairs exceptionally well with this recipe. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer uncovered. Once simmering, reduce the heat slightly to medium-low and continue to cook, watching carefully to prevent the pumpkin from burning. As the syrup simmers and thickens, it will coat the pumpkin beautifully, giving it a glossy sheen.
Step 4
When the pumpkin pieces become translucent and are nearly cooked through, carefully flip them over using chopsticks or a spatula. Ensure the skin side faces down and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the other side to absorb the flavors and become lightly golden, being careful to avoid sticking or burning at the bottom. Avoid using high heat at this stage. It’s important to handle the pumpkin gently to prevent it from falling apart. Once all steps are complete, turn off the heat and serve the sweet and delicious simmered pumpkin in a dish. It’s wonderful served warm, but also a treat when completely cooled and refrigerated.
