Chinese Sweet Black Sesame Tong Shui, or Dessert Soup

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Soak the rice in cold water for at least 1 hour.

2. Step 2

   Toast the black sesame seeds in a frying pan on medium-low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until they are fragrant and the pan begins to smoke. Remove and cool.

3. Step 3

   Drain the rice and add to a blender with 3 cups of the water.

4. Step 4

   Blend until smooth. Remove and clean out the blender.

5. Step 5

   Grind the sesame seeds in the blender until they are fully ground and the sesame smell is very fragrant.

6. Step 6

   Add 1/2 cup of the water and grind briefly until the mixture forms a grayish paste.

7. Step 7

   Add the blended rice/water mixture to the sesame paste and blend.

8. Step 8

   In a large saucepan, bring the mixture to a boil with the remaining 3 1/2 cups of water and the sugar.

9. Step 9

   As soon as it starts to boil, turn the heat down to low and cook until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly (5 to 8 minutes).*

10. Step 10

    Serve warm garnished with crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or softened chopped Chinese dates if desired.