Cooking Suman Biko: A Delicious Filipino Dessert

Suman biko is a popular Filipino dessert that combines the classic suman (steamed rice cake) with the richness of biko (coconut custard). This dessert is a staple in many Filipino celebrations and gatherings, and its unique flavor and texture have captured the hearts of many food enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the history of suman biko, its ingredients, and a step-by-step guide on how to cook this delicious Filipino dessert.

History of Suman Biko

Suman biko is a variation of the traditional Filipino dessert, suman. Suman is a steamed rice cake made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar, wrapped in banana leaves. It is a popular snack in the Philippines and is often served during special occasions. Biko, on the other hand, is a type of coconut custard made from coconut milk, sugar, and eggs. It is a rich and creamy dessert that is often served as a topping for suman.

The combination of suman and biko is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the biko complements the savory flavor of the suman, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. Suman biko is a popular dessert in the Philippines and is often served during celebrations and gatherings.

Ingredients

To cook suman biko, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Suman:

• 2 cups of glutinous rice
• 1 cup of coconut milk
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of pandan extract (optional)
• Banana leaves for wrapping

For the Biko:

• 1 cup of coconut milk
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When choosing the ingredients for suman biko, it is essential to select high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture. For the suman, use glutinous rice that is fresh and has a good texture. For the biko, use coconut milk that is rich and creamy, and eggs that are fresh and have a good quality.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Suman Biko

Cooking suman biko is a multi-step process that requires patience and attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking suman biko:

Preparing the Suman

To prepare the suman, start by rinsing the glutinous rice thoroughly and soaking it in water for at least 4 hours. After soaking, drain the water and mix the rice with coconut milk, sugar, and salt. If using pandan extract, add it to the mixture and stir well.

Wrapping the Suman

To wrap the suman, cut the banana leaves into rectangular shapes and place a tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of each leaf. Fold the leaves over the rice mixture and secure it with a string or a toothpick. Repeat the process until all the rice mixture is used up.

Steaming the Suman

To steam the suman, place the wrapped suman in a steamer basket and steam it over boiling water for at least 30 minutes. After steaming, remove the suman from the steamer and let it cool.

Preparing the Biko

To prepare the biko, start by mixing the coconut milk, sugar, eggs, and salt in a saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. If using vanilla extract, add it to the mixture and stir well.

Assembling the Suman Biko

To assemble the suman biko, place a piece of suman on a serving plate and top it with a spoonful of biko. Repeat the process until all the suman and biko are used up.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you improve your suman biko recipe:

• Use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different flavors, such as adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the biko.
• Use different types of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, to create a non-dairy version of suman biko.
• Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts to the top of the biko for added texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking suman biko:

• Overcooking the suman, which can make it dry and hard.
• Undercooking the biko, which can make it runny and unappetizing.
• Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the suman biko.

Conclusion

Suman biko is a delicious Filipino dessert that combines the classic suman with the richness of biko. With its unique flavor and texture, it is a staple in many Filipino celebrations and gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and tips outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic suman biko that is sure to impress your family and friends.

By following this recipe and using the right ingredients, you can create a delicious and authentic suman biko that is sure to impress your family and friends.

What is Suman Biko?

Suman Biko is a popular Filipino dessert made from glutinous or sticky rice, sugar, and coconut milk. It is a variation of the traditional Filipino rice cake called suman, but with a twist of having a sweet and creamy coconut topping. The combination of the soft and chewy rice cake with the rich and creamy coconut topping makes Suman Biko a delicious and unique dessert.

Suman Biko is often served during special occasions and celebrations in the Philippines, such as fiestas and holidays. It is also a popular snack or dessert in many Filipino households, especially during the afternoon or after meals. The dessert is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a favorite among many Filipino cooks and dessert lovers.

What are the ingredients needed to make Suman Biko?

The ingredients needed to make Suman Biko include glutinous or sticky rice, sugar, coconut milk, water, and salt. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients such as pandan leaves, vanilla extract, or food coloring to give the dessert a unique flavor and color. The ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets and Asian stores, making it easy to find and prepare the dessert.

The quality of the ingredients used can affect the taste and texture of the Suman Biko. It is recommended to use high-quality glutinous rice and fresh coconut milk to get the best results. The sugar and salt can be adjusted to taste, and the pandan leaves or vanilla extract can be added to give the dessert a unique flavor.

How do I cook the glutinous rice for Suman Biko?

To cook the glutinous rice for Suman Biko, rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain the water and combine the rice with coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a large pot. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.

The cooking process can take about 20-30 minutes, depending on the heat and the type of rice used. It is recommended to stir the mixture constantly to prevent the rice from burning or sticking to the pot. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool down before shaping it into small cakes or molds.

How do I make the coconut topping for Suman Biko?

To make the coconut topping for Suman Biko, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool down before using it as a topping for the Suman Biko.

The coconut topping can be flavored with pandan leaves or vanilla extract to give it a unique taste. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients such as cornstarch or flour to thicken the mixture. The coconut topping can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

How do I assemble and serve Suman Biko?

To assemble and serve Suman Biko, shape the cooked glutinous rice into small cakes or molds. Place the cakes on a serving plate or tray and top each cake with a spoonful of coconut topping. The dessert can be served warm or chilled, depending on personal preference.

Suman Biko can be served as a snack or dessert, and it is often paired with a cup of coffee or tea. The dessert can also be served during special occasions and celebrations, such as fiestas and holidays. It is recommended to serve the dessert fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Can I customize Suman Biko to my taste?

Yes, Suman Biko can be customized to your taste by adding different flavors or ingredients to the glutinous rice or coconut topping. Some popular variations include adding ube or purple yam to the rice for a unique color and flavor, or using different types of milk such as almond or soy milk for a non-dairy version.

The coconut topping can also be flavored with different ingredients such as pandan leaves, vanilla extract, or cinnamon to give it a unique taste. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients such as nuts or dried fruits to add texture and flavor to the dessert. The possibilities are endless, and you can experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version of Suman Biko.

How do I store Suman Biko?

Suman Biko can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to keep it fresh for a longer period. To store the dessert in the refrigerator, place the cakes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To store the dessert in the freezer, place the cakes in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

When storing Suman Biko, it is recommended to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent the coconut topping from melting or the rice from becoming dry. The dessert can be thawed at room temperature or refrigerated overnight before serving. It is recommended to serve the dessert fresh, but it can be stored for later use.