Rice cake, as a traditional food for the Lunar New Year, has a long history and symbolizes the annual improvement of life and work. It is made from glutinous rice flour, has a delicate texture, and can be paired with various ingredients for cooking, such as spicy cabbage, crabs, sausages, and ribs, offering a unique flavor.
However, enjoying the deliciousness of rice cake should be done in moderation. Its main component is glutinous rice, which is rich in starch and cellulose, making it difficult to digest. Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, causing symptoms like bloating or stagnation. Additionally, the calories in rice cake should not be underestimated, especially after frying or adding sugar, which significantly increases its calorie content. Frequent overconsumption may lead to weight gain.
Moreover, while the high cellulose content in rice cake is beneficial for intestinal health in moderation, excessive amounts may absorb water in the body, resulting in constipation issues. Common frying methods may easily cause internal heat, which manifests as symptoms like dry mouth and mouth ulcers.
Regarding the preservation of rice cake, soaking it in water for an extended period may lead to cloudiness due to starch dissolution, causing the rice cake to become sticky and emit a sour smell, which are signs of spoilage and should not be consumed. The correct long-term storage method is to clean the rice cake, individually wrap it in a fresh-keeping bag, and place it in the freezer, allowing for use as needed, which can keep it fresh for several months to two months.
The occurrence of dry cracks in frozen rice cake is usually the result of moisture loss and starch aging, and does not necessarily indicate spoilage. If there is no off smell after thawing, it can still be safely consumed. Rice cakes made in winter can be placed in a cool, ventilated area, covered with plastic wrap to keep them moist and avoid cracking.
To prevent rice cake from hardening, you can try soaking it in clean water, placing it in a cool area, and regularly changing the water to maintain clean water quality. When the room temperature is high, it is recommended to move it to the refrigerator for storage to maintain the rice cake’s softness. In summary, enjoying rice cake in moderation and taking appropriate preservation measures can enhance the joy this traditional delicacy brings to the festive season.
