DISH OF THE WEEK: Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetables Rice Roll at NUAN XIN RICE ROLL

Every week, I document another dish that impressed and satiated me during my food adventures around New York City

Just like when you order pizza in New York and it can look very different depending upon the style or location, I found out the same thing is true with Chinese rice rolls (or fan tuan).

The rice roll I received at Nuan Xin Rice Roll in Manhattan’s Chinatown (one of two locations) was not at all what I was expecting. They are what you might describe as a Chinese or Taiwanese rice burrito. Or think a very large inside out sushi roll, but not usually with fish or seaweed.

But as I learned, there is a lot of variety in how they serve these tasty handheld bites and Nuan Xin is doing something a little different.

Firstly, the rice roll was comprised of dramatic purple rice and not the expected white rice. They explain this is a healthier choice since the rice has more vitamins and nutrients than white.

It also provides a different texture and flavor, which I quite enjoyed. The rice had a nuttiness and slight sweetness which was nice with the other fillings inside.

The rice roll was also wrapped in dried seaweed, which I actually preferred to the usual plastic wrap. Better for you and better for the environment.

I chose the Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetable roll and it was nutritious and delicious. The preserved greens added a bit of tang, which was enhanced by the umami-laden sweet shredded pork and everything was rounded out by a surprising addition of a mayonnaise-like sauce.

It was not what I was expecting but actually exceeded my expectations. I love surprises! Price: $4.25