Here Are Some Interesting Facts About Puto
PUTO – Here are some interesting facts about this classic Filipino steamed rice cake that you might not know.
Puto is a classic Filipino delicacy known for its soft, fluffy texture and mildly sweet taste. Traditionally made from rice, this steamed cake is often paired with savory dishes like dinuguan or served as a light snack or breakfast.
Although there are many versions today, the original method involves soaking and fermenting rice overnight to make a smooth batter. In modern kitchens, rice flour is often used for convenience.
The word puto comes from the Malay word puttu, which means “portioned.” Traditionally, puto is made from fermented rice batter called galapong. The process involves soaking rice overnight, grinding it into a fine paste, and steaming it.
In older times, banana leaves were used to line the molds, giving the cakes a subtle, fragrant aroma. Over time, people started using rice flour and added ingredients like cheese, salted egg, or coconut milk, making modern puto quicker to prepare and more flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour (not glutinous rice flour)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup water (can be partly replaced with coconut milk for added flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Toppings like cheese slices, salted egg, or grated coconut (optional)
- Banana leaves or silicone molds for steaming
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour and sugar.
- Sift in the baking powder to avoid lumps and mix evenly.
- Add liquids: Slowly pour in the water or coconut milk and vanilla extract if using. Mix until smooth.
- Line molds: Use banana leaves or lightly grease silicone mini muffin molds.
- Pour the batter into each mold, about ¾ full.
- Add toppings like cheese or egg slices on top if desired.
- Steam over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Puto is best enjoyed fresh from the steamer, but it can also be refrigerated for a few days. Its soft, moist texture and simple flavor make it a timeless Filipino comfort food.