Glutinous rice flour (also known as sweet rice flour) is one of the most versatile ingredients in Asian cooking, and it's no wonder it's our best-selling flour at Golden Buffalo Grocery Store! Despite its name, glutinous rice flour is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, here are five delicious ways to make the most of this amazing ingredient.

Glutinous rice flour is the secret to achieving that perfect chewy texture in traditional mochi and dumplings. Mix the flour with water to create a pliable dough that can be filled with sweet red bean paste, fresh fruit, or savory ingredients like pork and vegetables. The result? Soft, stretchy treats that are beloved across Asian cultures.

Pro tip: Steam your dumplings for the most authentic texture, and dust your work surface with extra glutinous rice flour to prevent sticking.

Skip the cornstarch and reach for glutinous rice flour instead! This flour creates a glossy, smooth finish in soups, gravies, and stir-fry sauces without the chalky aftertaste. It's particularly excellent in Filipino dishes like kare-kare or Thai curries where you want that silky consistency.

How to use: Mix 1-2 tablespoons with cold water to create a slurry, then gradually add to your hot dish while stirring.

For those avoiding gluten, glutinous rice flour is a game-changer in baking. It adds moisture and creates a tender crumb in cakes, cookies, and bread. Try making Filipino bibingka (rice cake) or Japanese mochi ice cream for desserts that are naturally gluten-free yet incredibly satisfying.

Baker's secret: Combine with other gluten-free flours like tapioca starch for the best texture in Western-style baked goods.

Want extra-crispy tempura or Korean fried chicken? Glutinous rice flour creates an incredibly light, crunchy coating that stays crisp longer than regular flour. Mix it with cold water or sparkling water for tempura batter, or use it as part of a dry coating mixture for fried proteins.

Chef's tip: The key is keeping your batter cold and not overmixing – lumps are actually your friend here!

From Filipino biko to Thai mango sticky rice toppings, glutinous rice flour is essential for many beloved Asian desserts. It creates that distinctive chewy, slightly sticky texture that makes these treats so addictive. You can also make colorful tang yuan (Chinese glutinous rice balls) for special occasions.

Sweet success: Add pandan extract for that beautiful green color and unique flavor, or use ube for a stunning purple hue.

At Golden Buffalo Grocery Store, we stock premium glutinous rice flour that's perfect for all these applications and more. Whether you're recreating childhood favorites or exploring new flavors, this versatile ingredient opens up a world of culinary possibilities.