Why You’ll Love Rice Noodle Rolls (Cheung Fun) Recipe
Cheung Fun is a dish that’s both elegant and approachable. You’ll love how simple ingredients transform into delicate, satisfyingly chewy rice rolls. It’s a great way to bring a dim sum favorite into your home kitchen without needing any specialty tools. Plus, the neutral flavor of the rice noodles pairs beautifully with scallions, soy sauce, and sesame seeds for a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Batter base
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rice flour (not glutinous)
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glutinous rice flour (or substitute with cornstarch, tapioca, or potato starch)
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salt
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cold water
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neutral oil (such as vegetable, canola, grapeseed, or peanut oil)
Garnishes and sauce
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sweet dark soy sauce (or dark soy sauce with a little sugar)
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chopped scallions
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sesame seeds
Directions
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In a large bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the rice flour, glutinous rice flour, and salt. Slowly add cold water and whisk until smooth.
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Prepare a steamer by filling a wok or pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Place a level, lightly oiled flat tray or pan into the steamer.
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Stir the batter again and pour a thin layer into the tray, just enough to cover the bottom.
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Cover and steam for about 4 minutes, until the noodle sheet is set and translucent.
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Remove the lid and, with two spatulas or a scraper, gently lift one edge and roll the noodle sheet toward you into a tight roll.
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Slide the roll onto a plate. Repeat with remaining batter.
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Drizzle with sweet soy sauce, sprinkle with scallions and sesame seeds, and serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: Makes about 4 rolls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Shrimp filling: Add pre-cooked shrimp on the batter before steaming for classic shrimp cheung fun.
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Char siu: Finely chop Chinese BBQ pork and add before rolling.
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Vegetarian: Use sautéed mushrooms, scallions, or shredded carrots for a meat-free version.
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Sauce twists: Try hoisin, peanut, or chili sauce as a drizzle or alongside sweet soy sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover rice noodle rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. To reheat, gently steam them or microwave until warmed through. Steaming is preferred to maintain the soft, chewy texture.
FAQs
What is Cheung Fun?
Cheung Fun is a Cantonese dish made from thin, steamed rice noodle sheets rolled into logs and served with soy-based sauces.
Can I make Cheung Fun ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls in advance, refrigerate them, and reheat before serving.
Do I need special equipment to make these?
No, just a basic steamer setup and a flat tray or pan to create the rice sheets.
Can I freeze rice noodle rolls?
Freezing is not recommended, as it affects the texture and can make the noodles tough or rubbery.
What fillings work well in Cheung Fun?
Popular fillings include shrimp, BBQ pork (char siu), and green onions. Vegetarian options like mushrooms also work well.
How do I make the batter smooth without lumps?
Whisk the dry ingredients first, then slowly incorporate the water while stirring continuously until the batter is lump-free.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that your sauces and starches are gluten-free.
What sauce should I serve with Cheung Fun?
Sweet dark soy sauce is the traditional option, but hoisin, peanut, or chili sauces can add variety.
Why are my rice noodle rolls sticky?
Make sure your tray is lightly oiled and the batter is fully cooked before rolling to avoid sticking.
Can I make larger batches for a party?
Absolutely. You can steam multiple trays or make larger quantities in batches to serve more guests.
Conclusion
Rice noodle rolls (Cheung Fun) offer a delicate yet flavorful way to enjoy traditional Cantonese cooking at home. With a simple batter and basic ingredients, you can create a restaurant-style dish that’s soft, chewy, and customizable to your taste. Whether served plain or filled, Cheung Fun is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
