Nian gao, also known as Chinese New Year cake, is a traditional Chinese dish made from sticky rice flour. It is sweet, sticky and commonly used in Chinese cuisine, particularly during the Chinese New Year.

What does nian gao taste like?

Nian gao has a mildly sweet taste. When freshly made, it has a sticky and soft texture. When aged, it becomes firm and can be sliced.

Is nian gao gluten-free?

Yes, nian gao is gluten-free as it is made from glutinous rice flour which does not contain gluten.

How do you pronounce nian gao?

Nian gao is pronounced as 'nyen gow'.

What is the symbolism of nian gao in Chinese culture?

Nian gao is associated with Chinese New Year and is considered a symbol of increasing prosperity, as 'nian gao' is a homonym for 'higher year'. Eating it is seen as raising one's status in the coming year.

How long does nian gao last?

If properly stored, nian gao can be kept for about two weeks at room temperature or up to a month in the refrigerator.

How does one prepare nian gao?

Traditionally, nian gao is steamed in a bamboo steamer. It can also be sliced and pan-fried, often with egg.

Where can I buy nian gao?

You can buy it at Weee! Asian Market, www.sayweee.com.

Is nian gao suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

The traditional recipe of nian gao is suitable for vegetarians and vegans as it doesn't contain any animal products.

Can nian gao be frozen?

Yes, nian gao can be frozen and it can generally keep in the freezer for up to six months.

Why is nian gao sticky?

Nian gao is sticky because it is made from glutinous rice flour, which is known for its adhesive and elastic properties.

Can I make nian gao at home?

Yes, nian gao can be made at home with the right ingredients and recipe.

What are the ingredients of nian gao?

The basic ingredients for nian gao are glutinous rice flour, water, and sugar. Some variations of the recipe may include other ingredients like red bean paste or coconut milk.

Is nian gao the same as mochi?

No, nian gao and mochi are different. While both are made from glutinous rice, nian gao is a Chinese dish and mochi is a Japanese dish and they are prepared in different ways.

Nian gao is relatively high in calories and carbs due to the sugar and glutinous rice flour. However, it is low in fat and a source of instant energy.

Can diabetics eat nian gao?

Generally, nian gao is high in sugar and may not be suitable for diabetics. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a diabetic diet.

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Where to buy nian gao near me?

*Orders above $35, varies by region

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Top 5 products for Nian Gao

#1

Hansang Sliced Rice Cake 2.2 lb

Perfect for making savory Chinese New Year Nian Gao, this sliced rice cake is ideal for stir-fries, hot pot, and soups. It offers a chewy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. A convenient choice for authentic Lunar New Year and everyday Asian rice cake dishes.

$3.59 - $4.99

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Abdul's
These rice cake slices are so good I'd buy them again and again, plus half a head of cabbage, they're amazing!
Vicki
I made rice cake with bok choy and ground beef! Its very chewy and soft, also cooks fast
conan613
I didn't have tteokbokki rice cakes, so I made tteokbokki with tteokguk rice cakes. It wasn't bad. It's chewy and delicious.
PPPG
I've repurchased this multiple times; I love it and it's a must-have for my home.
Iloveweee
Frozen rice cakes
Anabel
good amount and quality
222
Very good to add to 떡만둣국
Kdashweee
Good, good, good, good, good, good
Kristy
The rice cakes were plentiful and of good quality.
.
It's the rice cake soup I always buy.

#2

Mei Hua Siang Sticky Sweet Rice Cake Original Flavor 18.3 oz

Perfect Nian Gao choice, this traditional sticky sweet rice cake delivers chewy texture and rich caramel‑brown flavor. Ideal for Chinese New Year steamer dishes, fried slices with egg, or sweet dessert soups. Its authentic taste satisfies holiday cravings. Great for gifting or festive tables. Enjoy!

$4.99 - $5.29

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Rhonalyn
this is one of my fav.. is great
Lyn
Craving for some Tikoy!
Loren Schulze
Haven’t tried it yet . But I’m so excited
CSG
The cardboard box was a bit crushed, but the inner packaging was intact. Looking forward to it.
Sher
Tasty! Taste just like home
pagasa11
I ordered this earlier for the CNY but as soon as it came, it's gone by the wind. I wasn't able to take pictures of the cooked one. Just buy your own and you'll see why. Happy New Year, weee loves you. . .
alice020623
Traditional egg batter pan-fried rice cakes taste just like the ones I ate as a child.
weee.16106607
Great for lunar new year
beewu
I bought these for the Chinese New Year to celebrate; they should taste great if I pan-fried them.
yumi
Rice cakes from Taiwan! They're super delicious whether pan-fried or deep-fried during the Lunar New Year.

#3

Mei Hua Siang Coconut Rice Cake 18.3 oz

Soft, fragrant coconut rice cake fits Nian Gao cravings, offering sweet milky flavor and chewy texture. Ideal for traditional Chinese New Year desserts, sliced for fried cake, steamed with red bean, or added to soups. Its natural coconut adds mild healthy fat. Perfect for gatherings and snacks daily

$4.99 - $5.29

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Weee.123
Try this festive coconut rice cake!
Bre_anne
Yummy tikoy
cindy
Sliced and pan-fried until crispy, it's not bad, but it's a bit sweet.
weee.123
pan fried this with some egg. I know coconut is not the traditional choice but my kids think this is nice and tasty.
Robelle
Arrived frozen. Thawing it now, can’t wait to try them!
Zoezang
Pan-frying them makes them delicious! They're chewy, bouncy, and soft!
weee.17121087
The packaging is beautiful and has a festive feel.
weee.9406108
This time I bought coconut rice cakes, and last time I bought brown sugar rice cakes. They were soft and delicious after frying, but they were too sweet. Less sugar is healthier.
langluik
Didn’t know that it is this small! Anyway, it’s only for Chinese new year
Tracy Thai
First time buying I hope it tastes good when fried

#4

Six Fortune Rice Cake Red Bean Flavor 500 g

Suitable for those seeking Nian Gao, Six Fortune Rice Cake Red Bean Flavor offers a delicious taste of a traditional Asian dessert. It's a versatile food that can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to sweet treats. The red bean flavor is a sweet, rich, and complex add-on to many Asian cuisines. Although not frozen, this product will save preparation time while keeping the authenticity intact. It is also a healthy choice, as it is low in unhealthy fats and cholesterol.

$4.99

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SY
I think it tastes pretty good; it doesn't have any strange additives and it's not too sweet.
Fang
The rice cakes are delicious! They really give off a Chinese New Year vibe.
momoxie
This is my first purchase, and the portion size is just right for two people.
fdjessica
During Chinese New Year, baked crispy rice cakes are tastier than fried ones
weee.7405018
The rice cakes were delicious and very sweet, but not the artificial sweetness of industrial saccharin. They were just a bit small.
librarose
Yummy ! though it will be bigger
taiorker
It's very small, but I hope it tastes good.
b1monicaa
Traditional red bean rice cake, so delicious!
chona
Can’t wait to try !
Eva
It's smaller than I thought, but it's only 500 grams

#5

Hansang Sliced Rice Cake For Tteokbokki 2.2 lb

A chewy, rice‑cake slice perfect for Nian Gao fans, it melts into sweet‑spicy tteokbokki, stews, or dessert soups. Its mild, slightly toasted flavor pairs well with soy‑based sauces and cinnamon‑sweet glazes, delivering authentic Chinese New Year texture in a handy grocery pack.

$3.59 - $5.29

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weee.17327405
I made tteokbokki, and since the rice cakes are frozen, they do get a bit mushy, but it's delicious!!
밥묵자
I added it to spicy chicken stew.
Natanya
Arrived on time, well packaged, good quality and quantity.
dolltear
I made and ate tteokbokki.
AJ
It goes well with tteokbokki. Good.
kinacoweee
It was chewy and delicious, so I bought it again!
nmn
as described!
weee.12744555
Great delivery!
jjjjjjj
The rice cake is chewy and delicious.
angela1608
I portioned it out, and this is how much is left. The quantity is generous, and it tastes pretty good, so I enjoyed it very much.

Popular recipes

Rice Cooker Nian Gao

This recipe adds the perfect consistency to the nian gao in a foolproof and easy method. Uniquely, this dish uses a rice cooker and some staple Asian ingredients such as brown sugar and sesame oil to transform the texture and flavor of nian gao. To increase authenticity, use pandan leaves for a sweet and unique aroma.

Instant Pot Nian Gao Soup

This hearty nian gao soup is quick and easy, thanks to the Instant Pot. The dish is made flavorful with the use of soy sauce and scallions. A dash of white pepper adds warmth and depth to the soup, making it a perfect comfort food for cold days.

Stir-Fried Nian Gao with Vegetables

In less than 30 minutes, create a colorful and tasty stir-fried nian gao with veggies using a stir-fry pan. The crispiness of fresh vegetables adds a contrasting texture against the chewy nian gao. With a simple seasoning of oyster sauce and garlic, it doesn't get more Asian than this.

Steamed Nian Gao with Red Bean Paste

For a sweet twist, try this steamed nian gao with red bean paste which is a dessert favorite in many Asian countries. The sweet and creamy red bean paste complements the chewy texture of nian gao while desiccated coconut gives an additional exotic taste.

Nian Gao with Sweet Soy Sauce

This version introduces a sweet twist to the classic nian gao, using sweet soy sauce and sesame seeds for a delightful variation. The sweet soy sauce not only adds a golden glaze to the nian gao but also brings an interesting sweet and salty taste to the dish.

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Frequently asked questions

What is nian gao?
Nian gao, also known as Chinese New Year cake, is a traditional Chinese dish made from sticky rice flour. It is sweet, sticky and commonly used in Chinese cuisine, particularly during the Chinese New Year.
Is nian gao gluten-free?
Yes, nian gao is gluten-free as it is made from glutinous rice flour which does not contain gluten.
What is the symbolism of nian gao in Chinese culture?
Nian gao is associated with Chinese New Year and is considered a symbol of increasing prosperity, as 'nian gao' is a homonym for 'higher year'. Eating it is seen as raising one's status in the coming year.
How does one prepare nian gao?
Traditionally, nian gao is steamed in a bamboo steamer. It can also be sliced and pan-fried, often with egg.
Is nian gao suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The traditional recipe of nian gao is suitable for vegetarians and vegans as it doesn't contain any animal products.
Why is nian gao sticky?
Nian gao is sticky because it is made from glutinous rice flour, which is known for its adhesive and elastic properties.
What are the ingredients of nian gao?
The basic ingredients for nian gao are glutinous rice flour, water, and sugar. Some variations of the recipe may include other ingredients like red bean paste or coconut milk.
Is nian gao healthy?
Nian gao is relatively high in calories and carbs due to the sugar and glutinous rice flour. However, it is low in fat and a source of instant energy.

What does nian gao taste like?
Nian gao has a mildly sweet taste. When freshly made, it has a sticky and soft texture. When aged, it becomes firm and can be sliced.
How do you pronounce nian gao?
Nian gao is pronounced as 'nyen gow'.
How long does nian gao last?
If properly stored, nian gao can be kept for about two weeks at room temperature or up to a month in the refrigerator.
Where can I buy nian gao?
You can buy it at Weee! Asian Market, www.sayweee.com.
Can nian gao be frozen?
Yes, nian gao can be frozen and it can generally keep in the freezer for up to six months.
Can I make nian gao at home?
Yes, nian gao can be made at home with the right ingredients and recipe.
Is nian gao the same as mochi?
No, nian gao and mochi are different. While both are made from glutinous rice, nian gao is a Chinese dish and mochi is a Japanese dish and they are prepared in different ways.
Can diabetics eat nian gao?
Generally, nian gao is high in sugar and may not be suitable for diabetics. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a diabetic diet.

Abdul's
These rice cake slices are so good I'd buy them again and again, plus half a head of cabbage, they're amazing!
Vicki
I made rice cake with bok choy and ground beef! Its very chewy and soft, also cooks fast
conan613
I didn't have tteokbokki rice cakes, so I made tteokbokki with tteokguk rice cakes. It wasn't bad. It's chewy and delicious.
PPPG
I've repurchased this multiple times; I love it and it's a must-have for my home.
Iloveweee
Frozen rice cakes
Anabel
good amount and quality
222
Very good to add to 떡만둣국
Kdashweee
Good, good, good, good, good, good
Kristy
The rice cakes were plentiful and of good quality.
.
It's the rice cake soup I always buy.
Rhonalyn
this is one of my fav.. is great
Lyn
Craving for some Tikoy!
Loren Schulze
Haven’t tried it yet . But I’m so excited
CSG
The cardboard box was a bit crushed, but the inner packaging was intact. Looking forward to it.
Sher
Tasty! Taste just like home
pagasa11
I ordered this earlier for the CNY but as soon as it came, it's gone by the wind. I wasn't able to take pictures of the cooked one. Just buy your own and you'll see why. Happy New Year, weee loves you. . .
alice020623
Traditional egg batter pan-fried rice cakes taste just like the ones I ate as a child.
weee.16106607
Great for lunar new year
beewu
I bought these for the Chinese New Year to celebrate; they should taste great if I pan-fried them.
yumi
Rice cakes from Taiwan! They're super delicious whether pan-fried or deep-fried during the Lunar New Year.
Weee.123
Try this festive coconut rice cake!
Bre_anne
Yummy tikoy
cindy
Sliced and pan-fried until crispy, it's not bad, but it's a bit sweet.
weee.123
pan fried this with some egg. I know coconut is not the traditional choice but my kids think this is nice and tasty.
Robelle
Arrived frozen. Thawing it now, can’t wait to try them!
Zoezang
Pan-frying them makes them delicious! They're chewy, bouncy, and soft!
weee.17121087
The packaging is beautiful and has a festive feel.
weee.9406108
This time I bought coconut rice cakes, and last time I bought brown sugar rice cakes. They were soft and delicious after frying, but they were too sweet. Less sugar is healthier.
langluik
Didn’t know that it is this small! Anyway, it’s only for Chinese new year
Tracy Thai
First time buying I hope it tastes good when fried
SY
I think it tastes pretty good; it doesn't have any strange additives and it's not too sweet.
Fang
The rice cakes are delicious! They really give off a Chinese New Year vibe.
momoxie
This is my first purchase, and the portion size is just right for two people.
fdjessica
During Chinese New Year, baked crispy rice cakes are tastier than fried ones
weee.7405018
The rice cakes were delicious and very sweet, but not the artificial sweetness of industrial saccharin. They were just a bit small.
librarose
Yummy ! though it will be bigger
taiorker
It's very small, but I hope it tastes good.
b1monicaa
Traditional red bean rice cake, so delicious!
chona
Can’t wait to try !
Eva
It's smaller than I thought, but it's only 500 grams
weee.17327405
I made tteokbokki, and since the rice cakes are frozen, they do get a bit mushy, but it's delicious!!
밥묵자
I added it to spicy chicken stew.
Natanya
Arrived on time, well packaged, good quality and quantity.
dolltear
I made and ate tteokbokki.
AJ
It goes well with tteokbokki. Good.
kinacoweee
It was chewy and delicious, so I bought it again!
nmn
as described!
weee.12744555
Great delivery!
jjjjjjj
The rice cake is chewy and delicious.
angela1608
I portioned it out, and this is how much is left. The quantity is generous, and it tastes pretty good, so I enjoyed it very much.