Malagkit sweet rice, also known as sticky rice or glutinous rice, is a delicious Filipino treat that is loved by many. Its sticky and chewy texture, combined with the sweet and creamy flavors, make it a perfect dessert or snack option. This article will guide you on how to cook malagkit sweet rice, step by step, ensuring that you can enjoy this delectable dish in the comfort of your own home.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients to make malagkit sweet rice:
1. 2 cups of malagkit rice (sticky rice/glutinous rice)
2. 2 cups of water (for soaking)
3. 4 cups of coconut milk
4. 1 cup of brown sugar
5. 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
6. Pinch of salt
Soak the Rice
The first step in making malagkit sweet rice is to soak the rice. Place the malagkit rice in a large bowl and cover it with water. Let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Soaking the rice helps to soften it and ensures a better texture when cooked.
Cooking the Rice
Step 1: Drain the Rice
After the rice has soaked, drain the water using a colander or strainer. Make sure to thoroughly drain the rice to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to a mushy consistency.
Step 2: Steam the Rice
Next, transfer the drained rice into a steamer basket or a heat-proof dish. Spread the rice evenly to ensure even cooking. Fill a pot or a steamer with water, making sure that the water doesn’t come into direct contact with the rice. Place the steamer basket or dish on top of the pot and cover it with a lid.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and let the rice steam for approximately 25-30 minutes. Check the rice occasionally to ensure that it is cooking evenly and add more water to the pot if necessary. The rice is ready when it becomes soft and chewy. Remove it from the steamer and set it aside.
Preparing the Sweet Sauce
While the rice is cooking, let’s move on to preparing the sweet sauce for the malagkit sweet rice.
Step 1: Combine Coconut Milk, Sugar, and Salt
In a separate saucepan, add the coconut milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors together.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously to prevent the coconut milk from curdling and to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Continue simmering the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. The sauce should have a creamy consistency that will complement the sticky rice.
Combining Rice and Sauce
Now that the rice and sweet sauce are ready, it’s time to bring them together to create the delicious malagkit sweet rice.
Step 1: Pour the Sauce over the Rice
Transfer the cooked rice into a serving dish or individual bowls. Pour the sweet sauce over the rice, making sure to coat it evenly. You can adjust the amount of sauce according to your preference – some like it generously sauced, while others prefer a lighter coating.
Step 2: Mix and Serve
Gently mix the rice and sauce together using a wooden spoon or spatula. Ensure that every grain of rice is coated with the creamy sauce.
Once mixed, you can serve the malagkit sweet rice immediately. It can be enjoyed both warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Some even prefer adding toppings such as latik (toasted coconut curds), fruits, or toasted sesame seeds for an extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Cooking malagkit sweet rice may require some time and patience, but the end result is definitely worth it. The sticky and chewy texture of the rice, combined with the creamy and sweet coconut sauce, creates a delightful treat that will leave you craving for more. So why not try making this Filipino favorite at home and enjoy a taste of the Philippines wherever you are?