Rinse the rice:

• Place the glutinous rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch from the rice.

Soak the rice:

• Soak the rinsed rice in water for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have time. Soaking will help the rice steam evenly and become soft and sticky.

Prepare the steamer:

• Set up your steamer by bringing water to a simmer. If you don’t have a traditional steamer, you can use a large pot with a steaming rack or a heatproof dish placed over a pot of boiling water.

Steam the rice cakes:

• Drain the soaked rice and place it in a heatproof dish or a steaming basket. Sprinkle the salt and sugar (if using) over the rice.
• Steam the rice for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is soft and the texture is chewy. Stir the rice halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Shape the rice cakes:

• Once the rice is steamed, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. While the rice is still warm, you can shape it into small cakes or balls with your hands. If the rice is too sticky, lightly wet your hands with water to prevent it from sticking.

Optional flavoring:

• For added flavor, drizzle sesame oil over the rice cakes or serve them with soy sauce for a savory taste.

Serve and enjoy:

• The rice cakes can be served immediately as a snack or with your favorite toppings, such as sweet red bean paste, honey, or even sautéed vegetables for a savory dish.