Biko is a popular Filipino dessert made of sticky rice and coconut milk, sweetened with brown sugar. It is a delicious delicacy that is often served during special occasions, such as birthdays, fiestas, and holidays. While there are various versions of biko, one unique and mouthwatering variation involves the use of black glutinous rice. In this article, we will guide you on how to cook biko using black glutinous rice, step by step.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we dive into the process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you need:
1. 2 cups of black glutinous rice
2. 2 cups of water for soaking the rice
3. 4 cups of water for cooking
4. 2 cups of coconut milk
5. 1 ½ cups of brown sugar
6. ½ teaspoon of salt
7. Banana leaves for lining (optional, but recommended for added flavor and aroma)
Soaking and Preparing the Rice
Step 1:
Begin by washing the black glutinous rice thoroughly in running water. It is essential to remove any impurities or excess starch from the rice grains. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear.
Step 2:
After rinsing, transfer the rice into a large mixing bowl and add 2 cups of water. Allow the rice to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Soaking the rice helps soften it and reduce the cooking time.
Step 3:
Once the rice has properly soaked, drain the water using a fine-mesh strainer or colander. Give it a gentle shake to remove any excess water.
Cooking the Biko
Step 4:
In a large cooking pot, pour 4 cups of water and the drained black glutinous rice. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Step 5:
As the water starts to boil, lower the heat to a simmer. Continue cooking for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice becomes tender. Stir occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly.
Step 6:
While the rice is cooking, prepare the coconut sauce. In a separate saucepan, combine the coconut milk, brown sugar, and salt. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Simmer the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes.
Step 7:
Once the rice is tender, carefully pour the coconut sauce into the pot with the cooked rice. Stir gently to evenly distribute the sauce and coat every grain of rice.
Steaming and Serving the Biko
Step 8:
If you have banana leaves, it’s time to prepare them for lining. Cut them into rectangular shapes, ensuring they are large enough to cover the bottom of your chosen baking dish or pan. Lightly pass the leaves through an open flame or heat them for a few seconds using a stove burner. This step helps soften the leaves and enhances the flavor of the biko.
Step 9:
Line the bottom of your baking dish or pan with the prepared banana leaves. Make sure they are clean and free from any dirt or debris.
Step 10:
Carefully transfer the mixture of rice and coconut sauce into the lined baking dish or pan. Flatten the surface using a spatula, making it as smooth and even as possible.
Step 11:
If you have remaining banana leaves, cover the top of the biko with them. This will help retain moisture and infuse a delightful aroma while the biko is steaming. If you don’t have banana leaves, you can use aluminum foil as an alternative.
Step 12:
Prepare your steamer by adding water to the bottom pan. Place the biko on the steamer rack, cover with a lid, and steam over medium heat for approximately 30-40 minutes. This steaming process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a soft and sticky texture.
Step 13:
Once the biko is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool for a while. Traditionally, biko is served at room temperature or slightly warm.
Step 14:
Once cooled, you can slice the biko into desired serving portions, square or diamond-shaped, depending on your preference. The banana leaves can be removed before serving, but some like to keep them on for a more authentic and aromatic experience.
Step 15:
Serve your deliciously cooked biko on a plate or banana leaf. It can be enjoyed as is or paired with a cup of hot coffee or tea. Share it with family and friends, and savor every bite of this scrumptious Filipino delicacy.
In conclusion, cooking biko using black glutinous rice is a delightful way to enjoy this classic Filipino dessert. By following these simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering biko that will surely impress your loved ones and add a touch of Filipino cuisine to any gathering or celebration. So go ahead, gather the ingredients, follow the instructions, and indulge in the sweet and sticky goodness of homemade biko!