Ginger and Red Date Rice

This is an improvised special one-pot dish from Ginger and Red Date Tea, which is a common hot beverage to be taken during confinement. By using the same ingredients for the tea, it is added to cook the rice which gives it a new flavour. At the same time, it reduces the effort to prepare the tea separately. Sesame oil is used generously, as it is rich in calcium and is also one of main ingredients for confinement dishes. Just adjust the ginger and sesame oil used, if it cooks for a normal meal. Mix a little unpolished rice to the white rice, if desired.

Preparation: 10 mins, Cooking time: 15 mins

Ingredients (serves 2)
° 200g rice, washed and drained
° 400ml water
° 100g ginger, peeled and finely minced
° 8 red dates
° 2 tablespoons sesame oil
° ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

Method
1. Combine all the ingredients into an electric rice cooker, mix well and turn it on.
2. When done leave the cooked rice to rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.