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.

FAQ

Are there Asian supermarkets in U.S.?

Yes! At SayWeee you'll find your Asian grocery items in our Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean, Indian and Thai stores. Get your favorite Asian products delivered to U.S. without leaving home.

What is the minimum order for free shipping?

Free shipping threshold varies by regions.

Do you have a physical store location?

We are an exclusively online retailer and do not currently have any physical store locations. This helps us keep our prices low.

What are your standard shipping costs and delivery times?

We have free delivery minimum on order over $35. Order minimum varies by regions.

What areas do you deliver to?

We deliver across the entire state. We deliver to all 50 US states.

Where to buy nian gao near me?

Asian American store with
free delivery available*

*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.

$4.49 - $4.99

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Shredded pork and rice cake soup, a delicious winter treat.
jenniferli2307
I bought some more to make tteokguk for the Lunar New Year.
지나
I made tteokguk! The tteok is chewy and delicious.
지나
I made army stew with it! Very chewy
Soobin
Love that they have them sliced rice cakes are so good. I like putting them in miso soup soup
Pheonix
Same, not bad, just the same taste.
Sue J
The price is good and it's chewy and delicious~
윤희나
I need to make some tteokguk!
Naguri
Rice cake soup! I always buy this brand! Best rice cake!
weee.8873979
The packaging was intact, the date is fresh, I would repurchase.
里鹃

#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!

$3.99 - $5.29

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will be having it for cny.
Beawong0113
This is my first time buying this; I hope it tastes good after pan-frying.
weee.15772010
This small box is for the Chinese New Year.
weee.15237505
Bought several different flavours.
xiuxiu667
This small box seems suitable for two people.
weee.12021540
With the Lunar New Year approaching, rice cake is one of the essential items.
mi
I'm Southern vietnamese so I have never tried this before but it seems so be good
Quyen & Evan
Sticky rice dessert tonight, yummy!
MaLyn
This amount is just right for a small family.
FunMun Pieng

#3

Pulmuone Sliced Rice Cakes 650 g

This 650g pack of sliced rice cakes is perfect for making Nian Gao and other Asian dishes like tteokguk (rice cake soup) or stir-fried rice cakes. Its chewy texture and mild flavor pair well with sweet or savory sauces, making it a versatile, delicious, and healthy rice-based treat.

$3.99 - $5.49

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Love it so much!!!
namiwood79
The rice cake dumpling soup was delicious.
weee.15801369
I liked that it was chewy and didn't swell.
EJ
It was chewy and delicious, so I bought it again.
Miran
Looks good! Delivered on time!
onyou
This is something I always buy. It's delicious and doesn't spread.
pureny74
The rice cakes are chewy and don't fall apart. I like them. They're perfect for making rice cake soup.
weee.15593023
Great for making rice cake soup. Also good for making tteokbokki.
jkimhj
I'm planning to make rice cake soup...
ec24ever2018
My family's favorite! I put it in ramen and eat it as tteokguk rice cakes! I'm anxious without it, lol.
Korean jipbap

#4

Mei Hua Siang Brown Sugar Rice Cake 18.3 oz

Perfect for Nian Gao cravings, this brown‑sugar rice cake offers classic sticky texture and caramel‑rich flavor. Ideal in steamed Chinese New Year desserts, sliced pan‑fried bites, or sweet soup. Its glutinous rice base provides fiber and low‑fat comfort. Ideal for holiday gatherings with loved ones

$3.79 - $5.29

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This is really delicious! It's not too sweet, and after frying, it's soft and chewy. I ordered it again.
hsiurukuo
will be having it for cny.
Beawong0113
It's very small... Thanks weee, it saved me time going to the supermarket. I hope the food is delicious!
Jane761111
I didn't expect it to be small okay thank you
Ara
These are exquisite brown sugar rice cakes! Perfect for the Lunar New Year!
weee.7246235
The packaging is nice, it's imported from Taiwan, and the brown sugar flavor is delicious.
M
This is my first time buying brown sugar flavored rice cake. I usually buy red bean. It's delicious.
weee.13598972
This tikoy is good in breakfast or snack it’s not hard to cook but if you deep in egg it more delicous.
Vjpadilla30

#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.

$4.49 - $5.49

Shop now

퍼지지않고 쫀득해요
plutokdy
Well packed and cold when received. No visible damage and expiry is about 10 months after purchase date
Mariel
Made toppokki with the tteok! So delicious! Very chewy
weee.14946056
I ate the tteokbokki deliciously haha
Chaeeun
Perfect size rice cakes and good quantity. Made easy tteokbokki.
divyan
I want to make tteokbokki, so I'm going to buy it~
J.P
Fast delivery. Thank you, Weee!
Meow2531
I love eating tteokbokki and tteokguk. They're chewy!
WeeeAllthewayHome
Great for theopokki and my favorite type for a solo dish wish just thinly sliced fish cakes and green onions. I normally purchase from my local H-Mart. I give it a 5 out of 5 stars.
Vidya
Tasty rice cake you can add to miso soup or sweet red bean paste for a quick dessert. They make a delicious meal cooked in the spicy sweet & sour soup.
Gina

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.

Shredded pork and rice cake soup, a delicious winter treat.
jenniferli2307
I bought some more to make tteokguk for the Lunar New Year.
지나
I made tteokguk! The tteok is chewy and delicious.
지나
I made army stew with it! Very chewy
Soobin
Love that they have them sliced rice cakes are so good. I like putting them in miso soup soup
Pheonix
Same, not bad, just the same taste.
Sue J
The price is good and it's chewy and delicious~
윤희나
I need to make some tteokguk!
Naguri
Rice cake soup! I always buy this brand! Best rice cake!
weee.8873979
The packaging was intact, the date is fresh, I would repurchase.
里鹃
will be having it for cny.
Beawong0113
This is my first time buying this; I hope it tastes good after pan-frying.
weee.15772010
This small box is for the Chinese New Year.
weee.15237505
Bought several different flavours.
xiuxiu667
This small box seems suitable for two people.
weee.12021540
With the Lunar New Year approaching, rice cake is one of the essential items.
mi
I'm Southern vietnamese so I have never tried this before but it seems so be good
Quyen & Evan
Sticky rice dessert tonight, yummy!
MaLyn
This amount is just right for a small family.
FunMun Pieng
Love it so much!!!
namiwood79
This is really delicious! It's not too sweet, and after frying, it's soft and chewy. I ordered it again.
hsiurukuo
will be having it for cny.
Beawong0113
It's very small... Thanks weee, it saved me time going to the supermarket. I hope the food is delicious!
Jane761111
I didn't expect it to be small okay thank you
Ara
These are exquisite brown sugar rice cakes! Perfect for the Lunar New Year!
weee.7246235
The packaging is nice, it's imported from Taiwan, and the brown sugar flavor is delicious.
M
This is my first time buying brown sugar flavored rice cake. I usually buy red bean. It's delicious.
weee.13598972
This tikoy is good in breakfast or snack it’s not hard to cook but if you deep in egg it more delicous.
Vjpadilla30
퍼지지않고 쫀득해요
plutokdy
Well packed and cold when received. No visible damage and expiry is about 10 months after purchase date
Mariel
I love Tikoy. Am glad that it’s on sale
enshultz
Tikoy! Love it!
joycecruz0405
Looks good, haven't tried it yet, hope it tastes good
weee.10019154
Yummy, havent had these in a while
winnie_gadia
My favorite. Love the taste, perfect for miryenda.Thanks Weee
29ers
Delicious!
Charmine
been craving Tikoy for a while. Now, it’s one order away. Thank you, weee. I will post more pictures once cooked.
catherinearca02
Tikoy, my favorite! :)
weee.7360664
Reordered it again! Received it cold and rock hard frozen inside the box with all other frozen stuffs that I’ve ordered! Packed well and handled well!
MhemayNueva
I cut into 4 slices, deep them into egg and fry them, it’s yummy. I wish Weee has the brown sugar ones.
94mvgo
Has the right amount of sugar so it’s crispy on the outside when you dip it in egg and cook it in a skillet
Jeff
It's small, just the right size for one person.
吃貨
Tasty brown sugar rice cake, we slice it and fry with sweet potatoes!
Christine
A little sweet, but not too greasy, good to eat fried or steamed
TC
Dip it in egg liquid and fry it in a frying pan, it has a very festive feel.
Hsiaolin Hsieh
I bought this one and also went to the supermarket to buy one. Comparing the two, this rice cake is softer and stickier, and slightly sweeter.
Vivien
It's so delicious. I've been frying it for two weeks.
June
It’s delicious when used to make fried rice cakes!
weee.8579811
tasty! Fried rice cakes are a must for Chinese New Year
yunju
I received the delivery safely.
Apple T