Pearl Balls

Although pearls are symbolic of longevity and beauty, this Sichuan dessert earned its name from the glistening sheen of the glutinous rice grains that coat these little dumplings. Short grain glutinous rice grows best in mountainous areas, of which there are many in Sichuan province. These balls are filled with chestnut purée, making it a tasty fusion dish, which goes particularly well with ice cream.