Puto Bumbang is a traditional Filipino dessert, often served during the Christmas season. This steamed purple rice cake, traditionally prepared in bamboo tubes ( bumbongs ), has a soft texture and a slightly sweet taste. The filling consists of shredded coconut, butter, and muscovado sugar. Naturally gluten-free thanks to its glutinous rice flour base, this dessert is a perfect option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Gluten-free Puto Bunbong recipe

Philippines

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Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 4 Special regime:

Naturally gluten-free

Cooking method: Cook Expert, Traditional Recipe themes: Christmas ​

Ingredients

Portions

• For rice cakes:

• 200g of glutinous rice flour

• 50g of purple rice flour or beetroot juice if unavailable)

• 100 ml of coconut milk

• 50 ml of water

• ^1/4 _tsp salt​​

• For the topping:

• 100g of grated coconut, rehydrated if dry (or grated cheese for a Filipino version)

• 50g of melted butter or vegetable margarine)

• 50 g muscovado or brown sugar

• For cooking:

• Banana leaves (optional, for presentation)

• Steamer or couscous pot

Preparation

1. To prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, purple rice flour, salt, coconut milk, and water. Mix until you have a thick, smooth dough. If you don't have purple rice flour, add a few drops of purple food coloring or beet juice to recreate the traditional Puto Bumbang color.
2. Forming the rolls: Take a small portion of dough (about a tablespoon) and shape it into a small roll or cylinder, about 8 to 10 cm long. Repeat until all the dough is used up.
3. Steaming: Heat water in a steamer or couscousier. Place the rolls on a rack or directly onto banana leaves or parchment paper in the steamer. Steam for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rolls are tender and slightly translucent.
   

4. Presentation and garnish: Once cooked, place the Puto Bumbang on banana leaves for a traditional presentation. Brush them with melted butter for a beautiful shine. Sprinkle generously with shredded coconut and muscovado sugar or grated cheese for an even more authentic version.

Keywords: Filipino Puto Bombong recipe, gluten-free sticky rice cake recipe

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