Savory Stir-Fried Rice Cakes to Celebrate Lunar New Year

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

As the sun sets on the eve of Lunar New Year, my kitchen fills with the warmth of family and the inviting aroma of something special sizzling on the stove. This year, I ve decided to whip up a dish that embodies both tradition and comfort: Stir-Fried Rice Cakes with Chinese Sausage. Every bite bursts with that delightful chewiness, perfectly complemented by the rich, savory notes of Chinese sausage and the crunch of fresh vegetables.

The beauty of this meal is its simplicity. Ready in just 30 minutes, it transforms my evenings into a festive culinary experience, allowing us to savor each moment as we usher in a year of prosperity together. It s not just food; it s a celebration on a plate, wonderfully customizable to suit whatever ingredients you have on hand. So, if you re ready to step away from the fast food rut and dive into a dish bursting with flavor and tradition, let s embark on this delicious adventure together!

Why are Stir-Fried Rice Cakes a must-try?

Simplicity: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.

Flavor-packed: Infused with the rich and savory essence of Chinese sausage, each bite is a delightful explosion of umami and freshness.

Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to fit your pantry or dietary preferences, ensuring every cook can create a dish that suits their taste.

Cultural significance: Traditionally enjoyed during Lunar New Year, this dish brings a sense of celebration and prosperity that makes your meal feel extra special.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether you re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Elevate your culinary skills and impress your loved ones with this scrumptious dish that goes beyond just a meal it s a heartfelt connection to tradition.

Stir-Fried Rice Cakes Ingredients

Get ready to create a delicious masterpiece with these essential ingredients!

For the Rice Cakes

• Oval-shaped Rice Cakes Choose refrigerated for convenience; dried ones need soaking overnight.
• Dried Shiitake Mushrooms Rehydrate for rich flavor; fresh can be used if available.

For the Protein

• Chinese Sausages Provide a savory depth; substitute with chicken, shrimp, or tofu if desired.

For the Vegetables

• Napa Cabbage Adds freshness and crunch; any seasonal greens can work in a pinch.
• Baby Bok Choy Another crisp option that complements the rice cakes beautifully.
• Garlic (4-5 cloves) Fresh is best for aromatic goodness; garlic powder is a last resort.
• Ginger (1-inch knob) A touch of warmth; powdered ginger can be used if needed.
• Scallions (2 stalks) Enhance flavor and pretty garnish; chives are a suitable alternative.

For Flavoring

• Sesame Oil (1/2 tsp) Drizzle for a nutty finish; adjust according to taste preferences.
• Light Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) Essential for seasoning and color; low-sodium is an option.
• Dark Soy Sauce (1 tsp) Deepens color but can be tailored to your liking.
• Shaoxing Wine (1 tbsp) Adds complexity; can be replaced with dry sherry if needed.
• Oyster Sauce (1/2 tbsp) Boosts umami flavor; opt for soy sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
• Sugar (1 tsp) Balances flavors; feel free to leave it out for a more savory result.
• White Pepper (1/8 tsp) Just a hint adds depth to the dish.

For Cooking

• Neutral Oil (2 tbsp) Ideal for high-heat stir-frying; can be canola or grapeseed oil.
• Reserved Mushroom Liquid or Broth (3/4 cup) The perfect steaming liquid; use vegetable or chicken broth.

With these Stir-Fried Rice Cakes ingredients, you re all set to create a meal that s not only quick but deeply satisfying and steeped in culture!

How to Make Stir-Fried Rice Cakes

1. Soak Mushrooms: Start by soaking the dried shiitake mushrooms in hot water for 20-30 minutes. This step rehydrates them, enhancing their flavor and texture for your dish.

2. Prep Ingredients: While the mushrooms are soaking, prepare your vegetables. Slice the Chinese sausages, and mince the garlic and ginger to ensure all flavors are ready to mingle.

3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the neutral oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry until fragrant and just beginning to brown, about 1-2 minutes.

4. Cook Sausages: Toss in the sliced Chinese sausage and rehydrated mushrooms. Sauté until the sausages render their fat and begin to brown, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine Ingredients: Add the napa cabbage, bok choy, and oval-shaped rice cakes to the pan. Pour in the reserved mushroom liquid or broth, cover, and steam everything for 3 minutes until the rice cakes soften.

6. Season & Stir-Fry: Uncover the pan and add the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir well and cook until the liquid has evaporated, and the ingredients are well combined. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and garnish with scallion greens.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Stir-Fried Rice Cakes?

Complement your dish with a delightful variety of sides to create a wholesome meal experience.

• Steamed Bok Choy: Lightly steamed bok choy brings out its natural sweetness while enhancing the dish s freshness. Add a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor!

• Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: This vibrant salad adds a zesty contrast, cutting through the rich flavors of the rice cakes with its refreshing crunch.

• Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Juicy and savory chicken on a stick complements the tenderness of rice cakes, creating a satisfying combination of textures.

• Egg Fried Rice: For an extra layer of flavor, serve with egg fried rice; its familiar essence pairs seamlessly with stir-fried rice cakes.

• Hot and Sour Soup: This soup offers a perfect harmony of spice and warmth, making it a comforting accompaniment for your Lunar New Year feast.

• Chive and Pork Dumplings: These tender dumplings bring a delightful bite-sized option bursting with flavor, creating a wonderful second course that your family will adore.

Explore these scrumptious options and elevate your meal to a festive celebration that your loved ones will cherish!

Make Ahead Options

These Stir-Fried Rice Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the Chinese sausages and chop all the vegetables (napa cabbage, bok choy, garlic, ginger, and scallions) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the dried shiitake mushrooms can be soaked overnight and kept in their soaking liquid to enhance flavor. When you re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepped ingredients, and follow the cooking instructions to finish. By prepping ahead, you ll save valuable time on busy weeknights while still enjoying a home-cooked meal that s just as delicious!

Stir-Fried Rice Cakes Variations

Feel free to personalize this recipe with specialty ingredients that delight your palate and bring a twist to tradition.

• Protein Swap: Replace Chinese sausage with diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu to suit your dietary preference. Each option adds its unique flavor profile to this dish.

• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate vibrant veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and crunch. Experimenting with different vegetables creates a wonderful taste sensation.

• Heat It Up: For some spice, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili oil. The extra heat beautifully complements the savory elements of the dish.

• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil can be tossed in right before serving for a fragrant garnish. These herbs elevate the dish, adding fresh brightness.

• Noodle Variation: Swap rice cakes for wide rice noodles for a different texture and mouthfeel. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the perfect tenderness.

• Sweet Twist: For a hint of sweetness, add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or a sprinkling of sugar at the end. This subtle change offers a delightful balance with the savory flavors.

• Saucy Delight: Increase the sauce by adding an extra splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce for a richer flavor profile. More sauce means a more luscious final product!

• Vegan Option: Omit the oyster sauce and use mushroom broth to make this dish fully plant-based while keeping all those savory flavors intact. It s a seamless switch that everyone can enjoy.

How to Store and Freeze Stir-Fried Rice Cakes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Stir-Fried Rice Cakes fresh and ready for a quick meal!

Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. For best results, separate portions with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore moisture and flavor.

Avoid Dryness: Be mindful not to overheat, as this can dry out the rice cakes; gentle warming is key to keeping their delightful chewiness!

Expert Tips for Stir-Fried Rice Cakes

• Proper Mushroom Soaking: Ensure you soak dried shiitake mushrooms for 20-30 minutes to attain the best flavor and texture; skipping this can lead to a chewy bite.

• Nonstick Pan Must: Use a nonstick pan to avoid the rice cakes sticking during stir-frying. This makes for a smoother cooking experience and easy cleanup.

• Liquid Steaming: When steaming, make sure your reserved mushroom liquid or broth is boiling before adding the ingredients; this helps achieve that perfect tender texture in your Stir-Fried Rice Cakes.

• Fresh Ingredients Count: Always use fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables if possible; they significantly elevate the overall flavor of the dish.

• Taste as You Go: Don t forget to taste your dish while cooking to adjust seasonings like soy sauce or sugar; this ensures a flavorsome final result everyone will love.

Stir-Fried Rice Cakes Recipe FAQs

What type of rice cakes should I use?
For the best results, I recommend using oval-shaped refrigerated rice cakes. They are ready to cook and provide that delightful chewiness. If you opt for dried rice cakes, don t forget to soak them overnight in water to rehydrate properly!

How long can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! You can store leftover Stir-Fried Rice Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to check for any signs of spoilage, like a sour smell or noticeable discoloration, before enjoying the leftovers!

Can I freeze the stir-fried rice cakes?
Yes, you can freeze your Stir-Fried Rice Cakes! Simply pack them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating portions with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They should maintain their quality for up to 2 months. Remember to label the container with the date so you can enjoy them at their freshest!

I had issues with the rice cakes being too chewy. What went wrong?
Not to worry; it happens sometimes! If your rice cakes turned out chewy, it s likely they weren t steamed long enough or the mushrooms weren t properly rehydrated. Ensure that the reserved mushroom liquid is boiling before adding the rice cakes and steam covered for at least 3 minutes to achieve that tender texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you or someone you re serving has allergies, check labels for the soy sauce and oyster sauce as they may contain allergens like gluten or shellfish. For a vegan option, substitute the oyster sauce with more soy sauce and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. Always ensure your ingredients align with dietary preferences.

How can I best reheat the leftovers without drying them out?
To keep your reheated Stir-Fried Rice Cakes tender and flavorful, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. When ready, warm them gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. This restores moisture and ensures they don t dry out, maintaining that perfect chewiness!