At the table
Let freshly fried slices cool slightly, then eat in small bites; the crust can be hard and the center sticky.
Some versions contain ham-style sausage. Check added ingredients and frying fat for vegetarian or vegan needs; sausage and seasonings may add allergens.
For children able to chew a firm crust and sticky rice, offer small cooled pieces and check added sausage or seasonings.
Recipes vary. Ask the restaurant about ingredients and serving before you order.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Ordinary rice and glutinous rice are used in different proportions. Some versions add seaweed or ham sausage, and slices can be shallow-fried or deep-fried.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory toasted rice with a lightly salty flavor.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Crisp fried surface with a soft, chewy center.
- How it’s made
- Cook the rice, season and press it into a slab, cool until firm, then slice and fry.
Ordinary rice and glutinous rice are used in different proportions. Some versions add seaweed or ham sausage, and slices can be shallow-fried or deep-fried.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Shanghai.
About this regional connection
Shanghai: Associated with Shanghai street breakfast and the wider Jiangnan area.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有粢饭糕吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Rice turned into a crisp breakfast
Cifan gao is part of Shanghai’s street-breakfast tradition. Cooked rice is pressed, cooled and fried, turning the outer grains crisp while the center stays soft and chewy. Try it with soy milk for a contrast between the fried rice and a warm drink.