Embark on a culinary exploration of traditional Malaysian street food with Pulut Panggang, a delightful dish of grilled glutinous rice. This scrumptious snack, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection, is a testament to the simple yet delicious flavors of Malaysian cuisine. Inside the charred leafy parcel, you’ll find a savory filling of glutinous rice and a spicy coconut-based filling, creating a balance of flavors that is truly irresistible. Whether as a quick snack or a party appetizer, Pulut Panggang never fails to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of glutinous rice
• 1 cup of grated coconut
• 2 stalks of lemongrass
• 5 shallots
• 2 dried chilies
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Banana leaves, for wrapping

Cooking Steps

• Soak the glutinous rice in water overnight.
• The next day, drain the rice and steam it until it’s half cooked. Set aside.
• In a blender, combine lemongrass, shallots, and dried chilies. Blend until it forms a smooth paste.
• In a pan, fry the paste until fragrant. Add the grated coconut, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the mixture is well combined.
• Mix the half-cooked rice with the coconut mixture.
• Cut the banana leaves into rectangular pieces and blanch them in boiling water to make them pliable.
• Place a spoonful of the rice mixture on a banana leaf and roll it up, securing the ends with toothpicks.
• Grill the wrapped rice on a charcoal grill, turning occasionally, until the banana leaves are charred.

In conclusion, Pulut Panggang is not just a delicious snack, but it’s also a nutritious one. Glutinous rice is a good source of energy, while coconut is rich in fiber and healthy fats. Furthermore, the spices used in the dish have various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. When selecting ingredients for Pulut Panggang, always opt for fresh herbs and spices for the best flavor. The quality of your banana leaves also matters; choose fresh, green leaves for the best results. Enjoy the process of preparing this delightful snack and savor the unique blend of flavors that make Pulut Panggang a true Malaysian gem.