How to Make Traditional Filipino Suman (Sticky Rice Cake)
How to Make Traditional Filipino Suman (Sticky Rice Cake)
Contents
Suman is a classic Filipino dessert made from glutinous rice steamed in banana leaves, often served with sugar or latik (coconut caramel crisps). This sticky rice cake is a staple during celebrations and as a midday snack.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups glutinous rice (malagkit)
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Banana leaves (cut into 8x8 inch squares)
Instructions
- Soak the rice: Rinse glutinous rice until water runs clear, then soak in water for 45 minutes. Drain well.
- Prepare banana leaves: Wipe leaves clean, then briefly pass over an open flame to soften (10-20 seconds per side).
- Cook rice mixture: In a pot, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Add drained rice and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until liquid is absorbed (15-20 minutes).
- Wrap suman: Place 3 tbsp rice mixture in the center of each banana leaf square. Fold bottom edge over rice, then sides, rolling tightly into a log shape. Secure ends with twine or leaf strips.
- Steam: Arrange wrapped suman in a steamer and steam for 45 minutes over boiling water.
- Serve: Unwrap and enjoy warm with sugar, latik, or fresh mango slices.
Tips for Perfect Suman
- Leaf preparation: Heating banana leaves makes them pliable and releases aromatic oils.
- Storage: Keeps for 3 days refrigerated; reheat by steaming or pan-frying.
- Variations: Some regional versions use cassava instead of rice (Source 1).
Suman FAQ
What’s the difference between suman and bibingka?
While both are Filipino rice cakes, suman is steamed in leaves, whereas bibingka is baked in clay pots and often contains eggs/cheese (Source 3).
Can I freeze suman?
Yes! Freeze wrapped suman for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen by steaming for 15 minutes.
Why does my suman fall apart?
This usually means: 1) Rice wasn’t soaked long enough, 2) Insufficient steaming time, or 3) The banana leaves weren’t wrapped tightly (Source 5).
Suman Variations Comparison Table
| Type | Main Ingredient | Wrapping | Common Topping |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suman sa Ibus | Glutinous rice | Palm leaves | Latik (Source 1) |
| Cassava Suman | Grated cassava | Banana leaves | Grated coconut (Source 1) |
| Suman Malagkit | Glutinous rice | Banana leaves | Coconut spread (Source 5) |
Related guides
- Bibingkang Malagkit (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)
- Filipino Biko Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Sticky Rice Cake
- Buchi: Filipino Sesame Seed-Filled Rice Balls
- Buko Pandan: The Ultimate Filipino Creamy Coconut Dessert Salad