Pandan Bai Zao with Coconut Syrup

Classic DishBai Zao

Prep: 35 min • Cook: 60 min. A fragrant twist on Bai Zao, infusing the glutinous rice with pandan leaf essence for a tropical aroma. Served with a rich, homemade coconut milk syrup, offering a delightful flavor departure from the classic.

Preparation time
35 min
Cooking time
1 hr
Total time
1 hr 35 min
Servings
15

Instructions

Prepare the Bai Zao

  1. 1In a bowl, combine the drained glutinous rice, pandan leaves (if using whole, otherwise the paste), sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the rice is evenly coated.
  2. 2Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the rice mixture into the center of each prepared bamboo leaf.
  3. 3Fold the bamboo leaves to enclose the rice mixture, forming a rectangular or triangular packet. Secure with kitchen twine if necessary.
  4. 4Arrange the packets in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or a steamer cloth, ensuring they do not touch each other.
  5. 5Steam over medium-high heat for 45-60 minutes, or until the glutinous rice is fully cooked and tender. If using pandan paste, the color should be vibrant green.

Make the Coconut Syrup

  1. 1In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and water.
  2. 2Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the syrup has slightly thickened. Do not boil vigorously.
  3. 3Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Serve

  1. 1Carefully unwrap the steamed Bai Zao packets.
  2. 2Serve the warm Pandan Bai Zao drizzled generously with the prepared coconut syrup.

Nutrition Information

Calories
281 kcal
Protein
2 g
Fat
11 g
Carbs
45 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories281 kcal
Protein2 g
Fat11 g
Carbs45 g

Tips

  • Soaking the glutinous rice overnight is crucial for achieving the right texture; do not skip this step.
  • Ensure your steamer is sufficiently large and that steam is consistently produced throughout the cooking time for even results.
  • Serve warm for the best texture and flavor, allowing the aromas of pandan and coconut to fully meld.

By Chef Michael Ilin