Steamed Pork with Rice Powder: A Festive Family Favorite

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

When the autumn air turns crisp and festive sounds fill the streets, I can t help but think of comfort food that brings warm memories flooding back. One dish that never fails to transport me to celebratory gatherings is Steamed Pork with Rice Powder, or Fen Zheng Rou. With its enticing aroma of spicy, marinated pork belly and the subtle nuttiness from a delicate rice coating, this dish is a true treasure in Chinese cuisine, often gracing our tables during special occasions like Chinese New Year.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its simplicity. You don t need to be a culinary whiz to create a stunning centerpiece for your holiday feast. As the pork steams away to perfection, it fills your kitchen with enticing scents that invite family and friends to sit down and enjoy the moments together. Plus, you can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables like taro or pumpkin, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Ready to discover a recipe that s rich in flavor and steeped in nostalgia? Let s dive in!

Why is Steamed Pork with Rice Powder special?

Simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Nostalgic aroma: The sweet and spicy scent of steaming pork fills your kitchen with warmth, reminding you of family gatherings.
Versatility: Customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables, from taro to pumpkin perfect for any occasion!
Tender texture: The pork belly melts in your mouth, complemented by the delightful coating of nutty rice.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone will love diving into this rich, flavorful dish that showcases the essence of Chinese homestyle cooking.

Steamed Pork with Rice Powder Ingredients

For the Pork and Marinade

• Pork Belly (1 pound) The star of the dish, offering rich flavors; you can substitute with pork ribs for a leaner option.
• Ginger (1 teaspoon, minced) Adds a warm, aromatic flavor; using fresh ginger will elevate the taste.
• Shaoxing Wine (2 teaspoons) Enhances depth and complexity; dry sherry is a good substitute if needed.
• Fermented Bean Curd (1 piece) Brings umami and a hint of sweetness to the dish; use red or white, depending on your preference.
• Spicy Bean Sauce (1 tablespoon) Introduces a delightful kick; opt for regular bean sauce for a milder flavor.
• Five Spice Powder (1 teaspoon) Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic spice blend.
• Sugar ( ½ teaspoon) Balances the overall flavors with a hint of sweetness.

For the Rice Mixture

• Long Grain Rice (6 tablespoons) Considered essential for steaming, it forms the base of the rice coating.
• Sweet Rice (3 tablespoons) Adds stickiness and texture to the rice mixture, enhancing the dish.
• Sichuan Peppercorns ( ¼ teaspoon) Provides a unique, tingly heat; you can swap with black peppercorns if you prefer less spice.
• Star Anise ( ¼) Introduces subtle spice and aroma; it can be omitted if unavailable.
• Water ( ½ cup) Necessary for creating the rice paste that will coat the pork.
• Light Soy Sauce (2 teaspoons) Elevates the umami flavor and adds richness to the mixture.

For the Accompaniments

• Taro (1 pound) Perfect paired with pork, as it absorbs flavors beautifully; substitute with potato, pumpkin, or yam if desired.
• Scallion (1, finely chopped) A fresh and vibrant garnish to add flavor and brighten your dish.

Dive into this delightful culinary experience with the timeless flavors of Steamed Pork with Rice Powder perfect for festive gatherings!

How to Make Steamed Pork with Rice Powder

1. Marinate the Pork: Slice the pork belly into ¼-inch thick pieces. In a bowl, combine it with minced ginger, Shaoxing wine, fermented bean curd, spicy bean sauce, five spice powder, and sugar. Let it marinate for 1 hour, infusing those robust flavors.

2. Prepare Rice Mixture: In a dry wok, toast the long grain and sweet rice along with Sichuan peppercorns and star anise for about 5 minutes or until it turns light brown. Let it cool slightly, then grind it into a coarse mixture using a food processor or pestle.

3. Combine Ingredients: Peel and cut the taro into uniform pieces. In a bowl, mix the ground rice with water to form a thick paste. Combine this paste with the marinated pork and taro, stirring in the light soy sauce for an extra kick.

4. Steaming Setup: Carefully transfer the mixture to a heat-resistant bowl. Prepare a steamer with about 2-3 quarts of water and bring to a boil, ensuring your steamer is ready for action!

5. Steam the Dish: Once the water is bubbling, place the bowl inside the steamer. Cover it with a lid and steam for approximately 70-90 minutes, until the pork is tender and infused with flavors.

6. Serve: Once ready, remove it from the steamer and garnish generously with chopped scallions. Serve it hot and enjoy the warmth of your creation, perfect for sharing.

Optional: Pair this dish with steamed rice or stir-fried greens for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Steamed Pork with Rice Powder

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the dish retains its delicious flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled Steamed Pork with Rice Powder before cooking. Wrap it tightly and it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, simply steam the frozen dish from frozen until heated through, about 30-40 minutes. Enjoy the delightful taste of home whenever you crave it!

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the marinated pork and rice mixture up to a day in advance and store in the fridge. This can enhance the flavors of your Steamed Pork with Rice Powder!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Steamed Pork with Rice Powder in advance is a game changer for busy cooks! You can marinate the pork and prepare the rice mixture up to 24 hours ahead, which not only saves you time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply follow the marination instructions, then refrigerate the pork in an airtight container. You can also toast and grind the rice mixture a day prior and store it in the refrigerator. When it s time to serve, combine the prepared ingredients and steam as directed for 70-90 minutes. This way, you ll enjoy the same delicious, mouthwatering results without the last-minute rush!

Steamed Pork with Rice Powder Variations

Explore delightful twists on this classic recipe to suit your taste and kitchen creativity!

• Pork Rib Substitution: Swap pork belly for tender pork ribs for a leaner option, maintaining the same rich flavors. They still soak up the spices beautifully!

• Vegetable Twist: Replace taro with seasonal vegetables like pumpkin or sweet potatoes for a fresh flavor profile that highlights autumn s bounty. The warmth of fresh veggies elevates this dish!

• Mushroom Magic: For a vegetarian version, use hearty mushrooms as the main ingredient and adjust the spices for a savory alternative. Their earthy tones pair wonderfully with the rice.

• Spicy Kick: Want more heat? Add sliced fresh chili or a dash of chili oil to the marinade for an extra layer of spice. Feel the warmth come alive!

• Sweet and Savory: Include diced fruits like apples or pears for a sweet contrast to the savory pork. These add a delightful surprise that brightens each bite.

• Quinoa Base: Replace rice with quinoa for a gluten-free version rich in protein and texture. This will give your dish a modern twist while retaining the comforting essence.

• Garlic Infusion: Toss in minced garlic to the marinated pork for an aromatic enhancement that offers depth and flavor complexity. You ll be amazed at the warmth it adds!

• Soy Sauce Variation: Experiment with different types of soy sauce like dark soy for richness or tamari for a gluten-free option to adjust the umami flavor. Each choice creates a new layer of deliciousness.

Expert Tips for Steamed Pork with Rice Powder

• Marination Magic: Allow the pork to marinate for the full hour to ensure maximum flavor absorption from the spices and sauces, making your Steamed Pork with Rice Powder truly delectable.

• Texture Training: When toasting and grinding the rice, avoid overprocessing. You want a coarse texture that will hold up during steaming, rather than a fine powder that may become gummy.

• Steamer Setup: Always check the water level in your steamer before cooking. Insufficient water can lead to burning and ruin your dish. Maintain a steady boil throughout the steaming process.

• Dish Size: Choose a bowl large enough for the pork and rice mixture to expand during cooking. A smaller dish may cause overflow or uneven cooking.

• Prep Ahead: Make the marinated pork and rice mixture a day in advance. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld even more beautifully, enhancing your Steamed Pork with Rice Powder experience.

What to Serve with Steamed Pork with Rice Powder?

Elevate your dining experience by exploring the perfect pairings that complement this dish s rich and comforting flavors.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Soft and fluffy, this classic side absorbs the savory juices from the pork, balancing every bite.
• Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Bright and crunchy, this veggie adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing your meal with vibrant flavors and textures.
• Garlic Soy Sauce Noodles: Noodles tossed in a savory garlic sauce provide a delightful twist, making your meal even heartier.
• Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers or radishes brings a burst of acidity that cuts through the pork s richness.
• Miso Soup: This warm, comforting soup introduces umami and provides a soothing backdrop to your pork dish.
• Honeyed Sesame Carrots: Roast or pan-fry carrots with a honey glaze for a sweet and nutty addition, enhancing the dish s festive feel.
• Chilled Cucumber Salad: A cool and refreshing salad with sesame oil and vinegar adds a delightful contrast, perfect for balancing the warmth of the meal.
• Chrysanthemum Tea: This light, floral beverage is an ideal pairing, cleansing your palate and enhancing the meal s flavors.
• Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat combines textures beautifully and wraps up your dining experience with a delightful finish.

Steamed Pork with Rice Powder Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pork belly?
Absolutely! When choosing pork belly, look for a cut with a good balance of meat and fat. The fat should appear creamy and not too thick. Avoid pieces with dark spots or an off smell, which can indicate spoilage. Freshness is key for the best flavor!

How do I store leftovers of Steamed Pork with Rice Powder?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it to savor the delightful flavors again!

Can I freeze Steamed Pork with Rice Powder?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, steam it from frozen, taking about 30-40 minutes to heat through while retaining its delicious flavor.

What can I do if the rice mixture is too watery?
If you find the rice mixture is too watery, don t worry! To fix this, you can add a bit more ground rice to absorb excess moisture. Start with a tablespoon, mix well, and check the consistency again. The mixture should be thick yet spreadable, perfect for coating the pork.

Is Steamed Pork with Rice Powder suitable for those with food allergies?
Great question! This dish does contain common allergens such as soy (light soy sauce) and potentially gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce alternatives. Always consult your guests regarding any specific dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy this lovely dish.

Can I use different vegetables besides taro?
The more the merrier! Feel free to substitute the taro with potatoes, pumpkin, or yams based on your preference. Each offers a unique flavor and texture. Cooking is all about personal taste, so get creative and enjoy experimenting with your favorite seasonal veggies!