The first bite of Muah Chee is pure bliss—the sweet, nutty aroma fills the air as the chewy morsel dances on your palate. I first encountered this delightful Chinese street snack during a bustling night market, where vendors served up these little pieces of heaven. With their soft, bouncy texture and a coating of crushed peanuts, each piece tells a story of tradition and celebration.
This easy vegan Muah Chee recipe embraces versatility, allowing you to choose between steaming, frying, or even microwaving for that perfect bite. Whether you’re preparing these chewy treats for a festive occasion like Chinese New Year or just treating yourself after a long day, they’re sure to impress both family and friends. Plus, they’re gluten-free and can be tailored to your taste preferences, making them a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Let’s dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe and bring a taste of street food right into your kitchen!
Why will you love Muah Chee (Peanut Mochi)?
Exquisite flavor: The combination of sweet glutinous rice and nutty peanut coating creates an irresistible harmony that tantalizes your taste buds.
Versatile preparation: Choose among steaming, frying, or microwaving to suit your schedule and kitchen equipment, making it accessible for everyone.
Fun to share: Perfect for gatherings, these chewy delights are a hit with both kids and adults, adding a fun, interactive element to any celebration.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different coatings—substituting peanuts for black sesame or matcha for a unique twist.
Quick and easy: Whip up a batch in no time, so you can indulge in homemade goodness with minimal fuss. Enjoy your new favorite snack, and consider making it alongside other easy recipes!
Muah Chee (Peanut Mochi) Ingredients
For the Dough
- Glutinous Rice Flour – This flour gives Muah Chee its signature chewy texture; avoid regular rice flour for the best results.
- Water – Use enough water to achieve a smooth, workable dough; a little adjustment may be needed depending on humidity.
- Salt – A pinch adds depth to the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- White Caster Sugar – This sweetens the dough; you can substitute with granulated sugar if needed.
For the Coating
- Peanut Powder – For a rich, nutty flavor, it’s the star of the coating; replace it with black sesame powder if desired.
- Crushed Peanuts – These add delightful texture and crunch; optional, but highly recommended for the perfect bite.
- Additional Sugar for Coating – Adjust sweetness to your liking; regular granulated sugar can be used if caster sugar is unavailable.
For Cooking
- Neutral Vegetable Oil – Essential for oiling pans and tools to prevent sticking. Use canola or grapeseed oil for better results.
- Sesame Oil – While optional, it contributes a fragrant note if you’re frying the dough. Consider using shallot oil as an alternative for added flavor.
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in crafting these delightful and chewy Muah Chee treats, ensuring you create a beloved snack that speaks to your taste. Enjoy preparing your homemade version, and share it lovingly with friends and family!
How to Make Muah Chee
-
Prepare Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine your peanut powder and crushed peanuts with a sprinkle of additional sugar. Mix well until evenly distributed to create a flavorful coating for your Muah Chee.
-
Make Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together glutinous rice flour, water, salt, and white caster sugar until smooth. The mixture should be thick yet pourable, ready for cooking.
-
Cooking Method (Choose One):
- Steaming: Pour the dough into an oiled bowl and steam for 15-20 minutes until it solidifies and becomes sticky to the touch.
- Microwave: Place the dough in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 2-minute intervals, stirring between until fully cooked and the texture resembles a soft, chewy consistency.
- Rice Cooker: Add the dough mixture to the rice cooker, cook in cycles for about 9 minutes while stirring, until it forms a solid mass.
- Air Fryer: Transfer the dough into the air fryer basket and cook at 180°C for about 10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes until it’s firm and cooked through.
- Frying: Heat a non-stick pan over low-medium heat, stirring the dough constantly for 15-20 minutes, until thickened and solid.
-
Finish Dough: Once cooked, remove the dough from the heat and let it cool slightly. Stir and fold the dough to achieve that signature bouncy, springy texture.
-
Coat the Dough: After cooling enough to handle, pinch off pieces of dough, lightly oil your hands, and roll the pieces in the prepared peanut or sesame coating, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
-
Serve Immediately: Enjoy your freshly made Muah Chee warm for the best taste and texture. Share these delicious treats with family and friends!
Optional: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the finished Muah Chee for an extra layer of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Muah Chee (Peanut Mochi)
Feel free to explore and make this delightful treat your own with these easy modifications!
- Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute glutinous rice flour with a gluten-free blend for a similar chewy texture in this delightful treat.
- Flavored Powder: Try incorporating matcha or cocoa powder into the dough or coating for an enticing twist on classic flavors.
- Nut-Free: For those with allergies, substitute peanut powder with sunflower seed butter or a mix of flaxseed and sugar for a delicious coating.
- Sweeteners: Replace white caster sugar with coconut sugar or agave syrup for a natural sweet touch that maintains moisture.
- Chili Kick: Mix in chili powder or cayenne with the coating for an exciting, spicy version of muah chee that boasts an unexpected and delicious heat!
- Fruit Infusion: Add finely grated citrus zest, like orange or lemon, to the dough for a refreshing brightness that elevates the taste.
- Texture Variation: Experiment with adding cooked shredded coconut into the coating for a tropical flair that pairs perfectly with the chewy mochi.
- Savory Switch: Turn muah chee into a savory treat by infusing the dough with sesame seeds or spices like five-spice powder for a unique twist.
With these variations, you’re set to create a personalized version of Muah Chee that reflects your tastes and culinary creativity! Enjoy experimenting!
Storage Tips for Muah Chee
- Room Temperature: Coated muah chee should ideally be enjoyed fresh and is best consumed within the same day to maintain its chewy texture.
- Fridge: Uncoated muah chee dough can be refrigerated for up to 3-5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncoated dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before preparing or cooking as desired.
- Reheating: If refrigerating uncoated muah chee, reheat steamed dough in a steamer for 5-10 minutes until warm, restoring that delightful chewy texture.
What to Serve with Muah Chee (Peanut Mochi)?
Indulge in the delightful world of flavors and textures that can accompany this chewy treat, enhancing your culinary experience.
-
Jasmine Tea: The floral notes of jasmine tea cleanse the palate and complement the sweetness of Muah Chee beautifully.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of vibrant fruits like mango and kiwi adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mochi.
-
Sesame Cookies: Crunchy sesame cookies provide a delightful texture contrast, making for a sweet, indulgent snack experience alongside Muah Chee.
For a cozy gathering, consider pairing these treats with homemade sweet red bean soup. The warm, smooth texture of the soup provides a soothing balance to the chewy mochi, creating a comforting dessert duo.
-
Green Tea Ice Cream: The creamy, slightly bitter notes of matcha-infused ice cream can elevate the sweetness of the Muah Chee while offering a cool, refreshing element.
-
Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites can make for a delightful contrast, with their hearty filling providing a satisfying bite before indulging in the sweet mochi.
-
Coconut Milk Drizzle: A drizzle of sweetened coconut milk over the Muah Chee adds an exotic creaminess that perfectly complements its chewy texture.
-
Sparkling Fruit Punch: A light, bubbly beverage can lift the flavors of your dish, making it a festive addition to any celebratory meal featuring Muah Chee.
-
Black Sesame Soup: This warm, creamy dessert harmonizes well with the mochi, adding a rich nutty flavor to the meal experience.
With these pairings, you can create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the delightful textures and flavors of this cherished Chinese treat!
Expert Tips for Making Muah Chee
- Proper Measurements: Ensure accurate measurements of glutinous rice flour and water; miscalculating can affect the chewy texture of your Muah Chee.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on your cooking time; overcooked Muah Chee can become too hard instead of delightfully chewy.
- Oiling is Key: Lightly oil your hands before rolling the dough in the coating; this helps the topping adhere better without sticking to your fingers.
- Stirring Technique: When cooking the dough, use a gentle stirring motion to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth consistency for the ideal Muah Chee.
- Serve Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy your Muah Chee right after coating; they are at their peak when freshly made and warm.
Make Ahead Options
These Muah Chee (Peanut Mochi) are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Just be sure to stir the dough again before cooking to restore its smooth texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your treats, simply follow your preferred cooking method (steaming, frying, etc.) to finish them off. However, coated Muah Chee should be enjoyed fresh, ideally right after preparation, as they tend to lose their delightful chewiness within a day. This way, you’ll have this delicious snack ready to impress at a moment’s notice!
Muah Chee (Peanut Mochi) Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right glutinous rice flour?
Absolutely! When selecting glutinous rice flour, ensure it’s labeled “glutinous” or “sweet rice flour” to achieve that signature chewy texture. Avoid using regular rice flour, as it will not give you the same delightful results. Check for a fine texture and a clean, fresh aroma—this ensures you’re using quality flour that will help create the best Muah Chee.
How should I store Muah Chee once made?
Very good question! Coated muah chee should ideally be enjoyed fresh and is best consumed within the same day to maintain its chewy texture. If you have uncoated dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3-5 days. This helps prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, freeze the uncoated dough for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before preparing.
Can I freeze the Muah Chee dough? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your uncoated Muah Chee dough, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the dough overnight in the fridge and then follow the cooking instructions as outlined in the recipe. This preserves its texture beautifully!
What should I do if my Muah Chee turns out too hard or rubbery?
If your Muah Chee comes out too hard or rubbery, it may have been overcooked or might need a little more water during the mixing process. Next time, keep a close watch on your cooking time—especially if you’re microwaving or frying, as glutinous rice flour can easily become tough if overcooked. To fix the current batch, try steaming the pieces gently for a few minutes; this might help to soften them back to their chewy glory!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For sure! While Muah Chee is naturally vegan and gluten-free due to its main ingredient being glutinous rice flour, it’s always good to double-check the other components as well. For instance, ensure that the sugar you use is vegan (most types are). If serving to kids or guests, it’s best to inform them about the chewy texture, as glutinous rice can be sticky and occasionally poses a choking hazard, especially for younger children. Enjoy these delicious treats responsibly!
Chewy Muah Chee Peanut Mochi Made Easy at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the coating by combining peanut powder, crushed peanuts, and additional sugar in a mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together glutinous rice flour, water, salt, and white caster sugar until smooth.
- Choose one cooking method: steam for 15-20 minutes, microwave in 2-minute intervals, cook in a rice cooker for about 9 minutes, air fry at 180°C for 10 minutes, or fry in a non-stick pan for 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooked, let the dough cool slightly, then fold to achieve a bouncy texture.
- Coat pieces of dough with the peanut or sesame mixture and serve immediately for best taste.