Num Ansom – Sticky Rice Cake

Steps

1. 1
   Step 1:

   Drain the soaked glutinous rice thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer.

2. 2
   Step 2:

   In a medium bowl, combine the coconut milk, palm sugar, and salt, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. 3
   Step 3:

   Add the drained rice to the coconut milk mixture, mixing gently to coat every grain evenly.

4. 4
   Step 4:

   Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.

   15 min
5. 5
   Step 5:

   Prepare a steamer by filling the bottom pot with 2 inches of water.

6. 6
   Step 6:

   Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

7. 7
   Step 7:

   Lay a banana leaf square flat on your work surface, shiny side up.

8. 8
   Step 8:

   Spoon ¼ cup of the rice mixture into the center, spreading it into a 4-inch rectangle.

9. 9
   Step 9:

   Place 2 tablespoons of mung bean paste in a line down the middle of the rice rectangle.

10. 10
    Step 10:

    Fold the banana leaf over the filling lengthwise, then fold in the sides to create a tight parcel.

11. 11
    Step 11:

    Press firmly to compact the rice, which helps it hold its shape during steaming.

12. 12
    Step 12:

    Secure the parcel with kitchen twine, tying it firmly but not too tight to allow for expansion.

13. 13
    Step 13:

    Repeat steps 5–8 with the remaining ingredients to make 8 parcels total.

14. 14
    Step 14:

    Arrange the parcels in a single layer in the steamer basket, leaving small gaps between them for steam circulation.

15. 15
    Step 15:

    Cover the steamer and steam over medium heat for 90 minutes.

    90 min
16. 16
    Step 16:

    Check halfway to ensure the water has not boiled dry; add more hot water if needed.

17. 17
    Step 17:

    Remove the parcels when the banana leaves turn a deep green and the rice feels firm to the touch.

18. 18
    Step 18:

    Carefully remove the parcels from the steamer and let them cool for 20 minutes before unwrapping.

    20 min
19. 19
    Step 19:

    Unwrap the banana leaves and slice each parcel into 1-inch-thick rounds for serving.