Suman Recipe
Suman is a classic Filipino rice cake made from glutinous rice, enveloped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. It offers a unique blend of creamy, sweet, and aromatic flavors as it is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar or a dip in coconut syrup. The making and enjoying of this simple delicacy brings out the essence of Filipino heritage and the flavors of home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups glutinous (sticky) rice
- 3 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup white sugar adjust to taste
- banana or palm leaves for wrapping
- 1 tsp salt
- twine or banana leaf for tying
Instructions
- Start by giving the glutinous rice a good rinse until you see clear water. Let it soak for a few hours, or even better, overnight. Once that's done, drain out all the water.2 cups glutinous (sticky) rice
- Grab a big pot and toss in the rice, some coconut milk, a pinch of salt, and sugar. Keep it low to medium flame and stir regularly so nothing sticks or burns. You're looking for a thick, dough-like consistency you can shape with your hands.3 cups coconut milk, 1 cup white sugar, 1 tsp salt
- If you're using banana leaves, give them a quick wave over a flame. This little trick makes them easier to fold without tearing. Then, cut them into sizable rectangles for wrapping.banana or palm leaves
- Lay out a leaf and spoon in two to three tablespoons of your rice mix. Shape it into a rectangle, fold it in the leaf, and secure it either with some string or a strip from the leaf itself.twine or banana leaf for tying
- Pile your suman parcels in a steamer. Double-check you've got enough water to steam and let them cook for about 45 minutes to an hour. You want that rice to be perfectly soft.
- Once cooked, take them out and let them cool for a bit. Serve them warm, and pair them with whatever you fancy - maybe some juicy mango slices, a sprinkle of sugar, or a drizzle of latik. Enjoy your suman feast.
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