Imagine unwrapping a delicate parcel of glistening sticky rice, infused with the mesmerizing aroma of pandan and wrapped in translucent tapioca paper - a culinary journey that promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary. This traditional Thai dessert is not just a recipe, but a sensory experience that blends exotic flavors, delicate textures, and centuries-old cooking techniques that will make you feel like a true Southeast Asian cuisine master.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2-3 pandan leaves
- Tapioca paper for wrapping
Instructions
- Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain completely.
- Tie the pandan leaves into knots to release their aromatic essence. If fresh pandan leaves are unavailable, you can use pandan extract.
- Soak the glutinous rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure even cooking and soft texture.
- Drain the soaked rice and prepare a steamer. Line the steamer basket with cheesecloth or banana leaves to prevent sticking.
- Steam the rice for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the grains become translucent and tender. Occasionally fluff the rice during steaming.
- While rice is steaming, prepare the coconut sauce by combining coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Heat gently until sugar dissolves completely.
- Once rice is cooked, transfer to a large mixing bowl and pour the warm coconut sauce over it. Gently fold to ensure even coating.
- Let the rice absorb the coconut sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to cool slightly and develop a rich flavor.
- Prepare tapioca paper by softening it in warm water for a few seconds until pliable.
- Place a small portion of the pandan-infused sticky rice in the center of each tapioca paper sheet.
- Carefully wrap the rice in the tapioca paper, folding the edges to create neat, sealed parcels.
- Optional: Steam the wrapped parcels for an additional 5 minutes to further integrate flavors and ensure warmth.
- Serve warm, garnished with toasted sesame seeds or additional coconut sauce if desired.
Tips
- Rice Preparation is Key: Always soak glutinous rice for at least 4 hours to ensure even cooking and achieve that signature soft, chewy texture.
- Pandan Power: If fresh pandan leaves are unavailable, use pure pandan extract or concentrate to maintain the authentic aromatic essence.
- Steaming Technique: Use a cheesecloth or banana leaf in your steamer to prevent rice from sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
- Coconut Sauce Consistency: Heat the coconut milk mixture gently to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, silky sauce.
- Wrapping Wisdom: Soften tapioca paper briefly in warm water to make it pliable and prevent tearing during wrapping.
- Flavor Infusion: Allow the rice to rest in the coconut sauce for 10-15 minutes to fully absorb the rich, sweet flavors.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra coconut sauce for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg
