Steamed Banana Parcels Recipe

Bananas: Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a soft texture, making them perfect for this dessert.

Coconut milk: Adds a rich, creamy flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.

Glutinous rice flour: Essential for creating the chewy texture of the parcels, different from regular rice flour.

Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the dessert.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

When preparing the banana parcels, ensure that the banana leaves or parchment paper are pliable to avoid tearing. To achieve this, briefly pass the banana leaves over an open flame or soak them in hot water for a few minutes. This will make them more flexible and easier to fold, ensuring a secure parcel that won't leak during steaming.

• ripe bananas - Substitute with ripe plantains: Plantains have a similar texture and sweetness when ripe, making them a good alternative.

• coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar creamy texture and can be used for a lighter flavor.

• glutinous rice flour - Substitute with tapioca flour: Tapioca flour has similar sticky properties and can mimic the texture of glutinous rice flour.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and can be used in a slightly lesser quantity due to its higher sweetness level.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor profile.

• Allow the steamed banana parcels to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the parcels soggy.

• Wrap each parcel individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together.

• Place the wrapped parcels in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This helps to keep out moisture and other contaminants.

• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the parcels within 3-4 days. The cool temperature will help maintain their texture and flavor.

• For longer storage, place the wrapped parcels in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen parcels in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps retain their original texture.

• To reheat, steam the thawed parcels for about 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious as microwaving can sometimes alter the texture.

• Avoid refreezing parcels that have already been thawed, as this can affect their quality and safety.

• Steaming:

  1. Fill a steamer with water and bring it to a boil.
  2. Place the banana parcels in the steamer basket.
  3. Steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  4. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Microwaving:

  1. Place the banana parcels on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Oven Reheating:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the banana parcels on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  5. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Pan Steaming:

  1. Fill a large pan with a small amount of water and bring to a simmer.
  2. Place a steamer basket or a heatproof plate inside the pan.
  3. Arrange the banana parcels on the basket or plate.
  4. Cover the pan with a lid and steam for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  5. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Knife: To peel and cut the bananas into halves.

• Mixing bowl: To mix the coconut milk, glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt until smooth.

• Spoon: To spoon the coconut mixture over the banana halves.

• Banana leaf or parchment paper: To wrap the banana and coconut mixture into parcels.

• Toothpick or string: To secure the parcels.

• Steamer: To steam the parcels for about 20 minutes until the mixture is set.

• Tongs: To handle the hot parcels safely after steaming.

• Cooling rack: To let the parcels cool slightly before serving.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Peel and cut the bananas ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Mix dry ingredients: Combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl beforehand.

Use pre-cut parchment paper: Have parchment paper or banana leaves pre-cut to save time during assembly.

Batch steaming: Steam multiple parcels at once to reduce overall cooking time.

Quick cooling: Place the steamed parcels on a wire rack to cool faster.