Suman is a traditional Filipino dessert, especially popular during the Christmas holidays. This simple and delicious dessert, made from glutinous rice cooked in banana leaves, is naturally gluten-free. Often served with coconut sugar or a sweet coconut milk sauce, Suman reflects Filipino traditions. Perfect for an exotic table setting, this dessert will impress with its authentic presentation.

Gluten-free Suman from the Philippines: a traditional sticky rice dessert for Christmas

Philippines

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Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour Total time 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 4 Special regime:

Naturally gluten-free

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

Ingredients

Portions

• For Suman:

• 250g of glutinous rice

• 200 ml of coconut milk

• 75g of coconut sugar (or brown sugar )

• ^1/2 _tsp of salt​

• ^1/2 tsp powdered ginger ₍ optional )

• Banana leaves, washed and passed over a flame to soften them (or, if unavailable, use parchment paper)

• For the garnish (optional)

• Coconut sugar or muscovado

• Sweetened coconut milk, slightly thickened (heated with a little sugar, or a caramel sauce)

Preparation

1. Preparing the rice: Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly in cold water to remove excess starch. Drain. In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, coconut sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the glutinous rice to the coconut milk mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring regularly, until the rice has absorbed almost all the liquid. The texture should be slightly sticky but still pliable.
   

3. Preparing the banana leaves: Cut the banana leaves into rectangles approximately 20 x 15 cm. If they are not pliable, quickly pass them over a flame or in a hot pan to make them soft and easy to handle. Place a generous tablespoon of cooked rice in the center of each leaf. Shape into a roll or a flat shape.

   
4. Wrap the leaf around the rice, then fold the ends over to seal. Use string or strips cut from banana leaves to keep the rolls closed, if necessary.
5. Steaming: Arrange the Suman rolls in a steamer, making sure they are not overlapping. Steam for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
6. Presentation and tasting: Serve the Suman warm or at room temperature.
7. Serve them with a sprinkle of coconut sugar or caramel sauce for a gourmet touch.
8. Arrange them on a tray lined with banana leaves for an authentic and festive presentation.

Note

Suman be prepared in advance and reheated by steaming or microwaving before serving.

Keywords: Philippine Suman, sticky rice recipe, gluten-free dessert recipe, Filipino recipes

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