Master the Art of Binaki: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Cook It Perfectly

Are you looking to add a new and unique dish to your cooking repertoire? Look no further than binaki – a delicious and traditional Filipino snack! In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about cooking binaki from scratch. From its origins to the necessary ingredients and step-by-step instructions, prepare to unlock the secrets of perfecting this delicacy in your own kitchen. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of binaki!

Binaki is a traditional Filipino delicacy made from ground cassava and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and baked until golden brown. It is often served at special occasions such as fiestas, weddings, and holidays. While the process of making binaki may seem daunting, it is actually quite simple and can be easily recreated at home with a few key ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. In this guide, we will take you through each step of how to cook binaki and provide expert tips to ensure that your finished product is authentic and delicious.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s first go over the ingredients and equipment you’ll need to make binaki.

– 1 kilogram cassava (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup condensed milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup butter
– Banana leaves (enough to wrap the binaki)
– Cooking oil or non-stick spray
– Baking dish or tray
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk or electric mixer
– Knife

Cassava

Cassava is the main ingredient in binaki. It is a starchy root vegetable also known as yuca or manioc. You can find fresh cassava in most Asian or Hispanic markets; however, if fresh is not available, frozen cassava can be used as a good substitute. Make sure to thaw frozen cassava before using it in this recipe.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk adds richness and flavor to binaki. It is different from coconut water, which comes from young green coconuts. You can either purchase canned coconut milk or make your own by blending shredded coconut with water until smooth and then straining it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve.

Condensed Milk

Condensed milk is a thick and sweet milk made by simmering down regular milk and sugar until it becomes thick and creamy. It adds sweetness to binaki and also helps bind the mixture together. You can use store-bought condensed milk or make your own by simmering 2 cups of regular milk with 1 cup of sugar for about 30 minutes.

Sugar

The amount of sugar used in binaki can vary depending on personal preference, but 1/2 cup is a good starting point. You can adjust the amount according to your desired level of sweetness.

Butter

Butter adds moisture and richness to binaki. Make sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe.

Banana Leaves

Banana leaves not only add flavor to binaki, but they also give it its distinct aroma. They can be found at most Asian markets. If you cannot find fresh banana leaves, you can also use frozen leaves, which will need to be thawed before using.

Cooking Oil or Non-Stick Spray

To prevent the binaki from sticking to the baking dish or tray, make sure to grease it with cooking oil or non-stick spray before placing the wrapped binaki inside.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment, let’s get started on making your own delicious binaki at home!

Step 1: Prepare Cassava Mixture

Begin by grating the cassava either by hand or with a food processor. Make sure to remove any tough fibers from the cassava before grating. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cassava, coconut milk, condensed milk, sugar, and melted butter. Use a whisk or electric mixer to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Prepare Banana Leaves

Remove any dirt or excess moisture from the banana leaves by gently wiping them with a damp cloth. Cut them into manageable sizes (approximately 8×8 inches) and briefly hold them over an open flame to make them more pliable.

Step 3: Wrap the Binaki

Place about 1/4 cup of the cassava mixture in the center of a banana leaf and fold it into a square parcel, securing it with toothpicks or tying it with kitchen twine. Make sure to leave some space inside for the mixture to expand as it cooks.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you continue wrapping the rest of the binaki.

Step 5: Grease Baking Dish or Tray

Lightly grease your baking dish or tray with cooking oil or non-stick spray. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the binaki once cooked.

Step

Overview of Binaki and its Origin

Binaki is a delicacy primarily made in the Philippines, specifically in the Ilocos Region. It is a type of Filipino rice cake that originated from the province of Ilocos Norte. The name “binaki” comes from the Ilocano term “bini” which means “to steam”. This delicious dessert is made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, with variations depending on the preference or availability of ingredients in other regions.

The rice cakes are traditionally cooked using tubes made of banana leaves or bamboo called “bagakay”. They are steamed for about an hour until they become soft and fluffy. Binaki has a distinctive flavor and texture that makes it stand out among other Filipino sweets. Its origin dates back to the pre-colonial times when it was mainly used as an offering during rituals and ceremonies.

Ingredients for Making Binaki

To make binaki, you will need 1 cup of glutinous rice flour, 1 cup of water, 1 cup of coconut milk, ½ cup white sugar, banana leaves (or aluminum foil if unavailable), and cooking oil for greasing. These ingredients can be easily found in most Asian stores or supermarkets.

The type of coconut milk used for making binaki plays a significant role in its taste and texture. For best results, use freshly squeezed coconut milk instead of canned ones. You can also add pandan leaves to give the binaki a subtle aroma.

Preparing Banana Leaves (or Aluminum Foil) for Cooking

If using banana leaves, make sure to choose young and tender ones to prevent them from ripping when wrapping the binaki mixture. Cut them into approximately 5 x 7 inches rectangle pieces and pass them over an open flame quickly to make them more pliable.

If using aluminum foil, tear them into 5 x 7 inches rectangular pieces and grease them with a thin layer of oil. The banana leaves or aluminum foil will serve as the container for the binaki mixture.

Step-by-Step Guide on how to Cook Binaki

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water. Mix until well combined and forms into a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Slowly add in the coconut milk while continuously stirring to avoid lumps from forming.

Step 3: Add in the sugar and mix well until fully incorporated. The mixture should have a slightly thick but smooth consistency.

Step 4: If using pandan leaves, tie them into a knot and add it to the mixture. This will give the binaki a light green color and a subtle aroma.

Step 5: Grease the banana leaves (or aluminum foil) with cooking oil. This will prevent the binaki from sticking to it while cooking.

Step 6: Scoop about two tablespoons of the binaki mixture into each prepared banana leaf or aluminum foil.

Step 7: Fold both sides of the wrapper towards each other until they meet at the center, then tuck them under slightly to secure it. Do this for all of the wrapped binaki.

Step 8: Prepare a steamer by filling it with water and bringing it to a boil. Place the wrapped binaki on top of a steamer basket or tray leaving about an inch space between each piece to allow steam circulation.

Step 9: Cover with a lid and steam for about an hour or until done. You can check if they are cooked by gently poking it with a toothpick, if it comes out clean, then they are ready.

Serving Suggestions

Binaki is best served warm, so you can reheat it in any conventional oven or microwave before serving. Unwrap the banana leaf or aluminum foil before reheating.

You can also top off your binaki with some grated coconut on top or eat it with a side of mangoes or other tropical fruits to balance out its sweetness. Pair it with your favorite hot beverage for a perfect snack or dessert.

Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Binaki

– If you want to add some color to your binaki, you can use food coloring or natural ingredients like pandan leaves, purple yam, or ube jam.
– For a more decadent binaki, you can try adding in some toppings like cheese, ube halaya, or chocolate chips before steaming.
– Make sure the mixture has a smooth consistency before wrapping it in banana leaves or aluminum foil to avoid lumps.
– The key to perfectly cooked binaki is steaming them over low to medium heat for about an hour. This will ensure that they are cooked evenly without burning.
– If using fresh coconut milk, make sure to regularly stir the mixture to prevent it from curdling.
– If using canned coconut milk, make sure to dilute it with water before adding it in the mixture.
– You can store leftover binaki in an airtight

1) What is binaki?
Binaki is a traditional Filipino dessert made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar. It is usually steamed in banana leaves and often topped with additional ingredients such as cheese or salted eggs.

2) What ingredients do I need to cook binaki?
To make binaki, you will need glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, white or brown sugar, salt, baking powder, grated cheese (optional), and banana leaves for steaming.

3) How do I prepare the banana leaves for steaming?
To prepare the banana leaves for steaming, wash them thoroughly and wipe them dry. Cut them into 6 x 6 inch squares and then quickly pass them over an open flame to make them more pliable.

4) Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in the recipe if needed. For example, instead of using fresh coconut milk, you can use canned coconut milk. However, this may affect the taste and texture of the binaki.

5) How long does it take to cook binaki?
The cooking time for binaki can vary depending on the size of your steamer and how many layers of binaki you are cooking at once. In general, it takes about 20-25 minutes for one layer of binaki to cook completely.

6) Is it necessary to use mini muffin tins or molds when making binaki?
While using mini muffin tins or molds can give your binaki a uniform shape and size, they are not necessary. You can also use regular-sized muffin tins or even form the dough into small balls and steam them on a baking sheet lined with banana leaves.

In conclusion, cooking Binaki is a simple yet delicious process that requires attention to detail and a few key ingredients. From preparing the banana leaves to mixing the dough and incorporating different flavors, each step is crucial in creating the perfect Binaki. The traditional method of baking over hot coals adds a unique flavor, but it can also be easily adapted to modern methods of cooking.

It is important to note that Binaki not only offers a delicious treat but also represents cultural traditions and heritage. It is a dish that holds great significance in Filipino cuisine and should be celebrated and shared with others.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, anyone can successfully cook Binaki at home. With its blend of sweet and savory flavors, it is sure to become a hit at any gathering or special occasion.

Additionally, understanding the nutritional benefits of key ingredients like bananas and coconut milk makes Binaki not only tasty but also a healthy option for snacks or desserts.

Overall, cooking Binaki encompasses more than just preparing food; it is an experience that connects people to their culture and brings them closer together. So, gather your loved ones and try out this delicious recipe for an authentic taste of the Philippines. Remember to experiment with different fillings and techniques to create your personalized version of Binaki.

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.