Banana Leaf Coconut Rice Cakes (Khao Dome)
Delight in the exotic flavors of Banana Leaf Coconut Rice Cakes, a Laotian-inspired delicacy that combines the rich creaminess of coconut with the sweetness of ripe plantain, all enveloped in fragrant banana leaves. These delightful treats, reminiscent of tamales, are both a satisfying snack and a tempting dessert option. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to pack and enjoy on the go. The secret to achieving the perfect chewy texture lies in the double cooking method, ensuring every bite is irresistibly soft and glutinous. With a little patience for soaking and cooking, you can recreate this authentic favorite from the comfort of your home.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sticky Rice
1 cup (Rinse and soak as directed.)
Water (for cooking rice)
1 cup (Add to rice during cooking.)
Coconut Milk
1 (13 1/2 ounce) can (Shake well before opening.)
Sugar
1/2 cup (Use vegan sugar if desired.)
Ripe Plantain
1 large (Peel and slice into rectangular pieces.)
Banana Leaves
8-10 large (Rinse and cut to size.)
Extra Water
As needed for soaking rice. (Use to cover rice during soaking.)
Instructions
1
Rinse the sticky rice thoroughly: In a large bowl, add uncooked sticky rice and cover with several cups of cold water. Stir and shake the rice with your hands until the water turns milky white. Drain the water and repeat this process until the water is mostly clear. Finally, cover the rinsed rice with fresh water and let it soak for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
2
Cook the sticky rice: If you own a rice cooker, use it to prepare the rice. If not, in a medium pot, combine the soaked rice with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the rice to steam undisturbed for 20 minutes. Check for doneness, adding more time if necessary. Once cooked, set aside to cool.
3
Create the coconut mixture: In a large pot, combine the coconut milk and sugar, mixing over medium-high heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Stir the mixture until it becomes creamy.
4
Combine rice and coconut mixture: Add the cooled sticky rice to the pot with the coconut milk mixture, stirring gently to incorporate. Cook on medium-high until the mixture reaches a thick porridge-like consistency. After cooking, remove from heat. If you wish, you can enjoy this creamy rice bowl with mango as a dessert at this stage.
5
Prepare the plantain: Peel the ripe plantain and slice it into 8-10 rectangular pieces.
6
Cut the banana leaves: Rinse the banana leaves and trim them to approximately 8.5 inches by 11 inches, akin to a standard sheet of paper.
7
Assemble the khao dome: Take a banana leaf and lay it flat with the wider side horizontal. Place a dollop of the rice mixture in the center, top it with a slice of plantain, and then add another scoop of rice over the plantain. Moisten your hands and shape the filling into a rectangular form. Fold the edges of the leaf over the filling, wrapping it securely. Finally, fold the top and bottom of the leaf to seal your package. Tying with string is optional.
8
Steam the khao dome: Utilize a steaming basket; fill it with the wrapped khao domes. Place the basket over a pot filled with 2-3 inches of boiling water. Steam for 40 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
9
Serve and enjoy: These rice cakes are delightful as a portable snack. Simply peel back the banana leaf and enjoy the delectable flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Banana Leaf Coconut Rice Cakes (Khao Dome)?
They are a Laotian-inspired delicacy made of sticky rice, coconut milk, and ripe plantains wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to create a chewy, sweet snack.
What is the primary origin of this dish?
This recipe is a Laotian-inspired dish, commonly known as Khao Dome in Southeast Asian cuisine.
How long should I soak the sticky rice?
The sticky rice should be soaked for at least 6 hours, though soaking it overnight is preferable for the best texture.
Can I use regular white rice instead of sticky rice?
No, you must use glutinous sticky rice to achieve the signature chewy and soft texture required for Khao Dome.
What type of fruit is used inside the rice cakes?
A large ripe plantain is used, peeled and sliced into rectangular pieces to act as the filling.
Why is it important to rinse the rice until the water is clear?
Rinsing removes excess surface starch, which ensures the rice has the correct consistency and doesn't become overly gummy during the cooking process.
How do I prepare the coconut mixture?
Combine coconut milk and sugar in a large pot over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is creamy.
What is the purpose of the 'double cooking' method?
The double cooking method—first steaming the rice and then steaming the wrapped cakes—ensures a perfectly soft, chewy, and glutinous texture.
What size should the banana leaves be cut to?
The banana leaves should be trimmed to approximately 8.5 inches by 11 inches, which is about the size of a standard sheet of paper.
Is it necessary to tie the banana leaf packages with string?
Tying with string is optional; if the leaves are folded securely over the filling, they should stay closed during steaming.
How long does the final steaming process take?
The assembled Khao Dome cakes need to be steamed in a basket for 40 minutes.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally plant-based. Just ensure you use a vegan-friendly sugar.
How do I assemble the rice cakes?
Place a dollop of rice on a banana leaf, top with a slice of plantain, add another scoop of rice, shape into a rectangle, and fold the leaf edges to seal.
What is the desired consistency of the rice and coconut milk mixture?
The mixture should be cooked until it reaches a thick, porridge-like consistency before wrapping.
Can I use a rice cooker for the initial rice cooking step?
Yes, a rice cooker can be used to prepare the sticky rice after it has been properly soaked and drained.
Should the coconut milk be prepared in any specific way?
Yes, you should shake the can of coconut milk well before opening it to ensure the fats and liquids are well combined.
Can I eat these as a meal or a dessert?
They are versatile and work perfectly as both a satisfying snack and a tempting dessert option.
What should I do if the rice is not done after 20 minutes of steaming?
Check for doneness and continue to steam for a few more minutes if the rice still feels hard or undercooked.
Are banana leaves edible?
No, the banana leaves are used for wrapping and imparting flavor during steaming; they should be peeled back and discarded before eating the rice cake.
How many rice cakes does this recipe typically produce?
Based on the ingredients and instructions, this recipe typically yields 8 to 10 rice cakes.
Is there a recommended alternative if I don't want to use plantains?
The recipe suggests that the creamy rice and coconut mixture can also be enjoyed with mango as a dessert.
Why do I need to moisten my hands during assembly?
Moistening your hands prevents the glutinous rice mixture from sticking to your skin, making it easier to shape the cakes.
How should I serve the Khao Dome?
Allow them to cool after steaming, then simply peel back the leaf and enjoy them as a portable, handheld snack.
Can I store these for later?
Yes, these rice cakes are designed to be portable and easy to pack, making them great for making ahead of time.
What flavor does the banana leaf add?
The banana leaf adds a delicate, fragrant, and slightly earthy aroma to the rice while it steams.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, although it is called 'glutinous' rice, it does not actually contain gluten; it is safe for those on a gluten-free diet.
What happens if I don't soak the rice long enough?
The rice may remain hard or crunchy in the center even after cooking and steaming if it hasn't been hydrated for at least 6 hours.
Do I need to boil the water for the steaming basket first?
Yes, place the basket over a pot filled with 2-3 inches of already boiling water for effective steaming.
Can I use frozen banana leaves?
Yes, frozen banana leaves are a common substitute; just thaw them and rinse them before cutting and using.
What is the best way to clean the banana leaves?
Rinse them under cool water and wipe them dry with a clean cloth to remove any debris before assembly.