Welcome to the world of delicious Vietnamese cuisine! Today, we’re diving into a mouthwatering recipe for Banh It Nhan Dua, also known as Coconut Rice Dumplings. This delightful dish holds a special place in Vietnamese culture, often enjoyed during festivals and family gatherings. Traditionally, it symbolizes unity and the joy of bringing people together over good food.
Banh It Nhan Dua is loved for its chewy texture, sweet coconut filling, and beautiful presentation. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a fun recipe to make! Whether you’re looking to impress your friends with a unique dessert or simply treat yourself, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s get started on making these delightful dumplings!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Glutinous rice flour | 2 cups |
| Coconut milk | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Grated coconut | 1 cup |
| Water | As needed |
| Banana leaves (optional) | For wrapping |
| Pandans leaves (optional) | For flavoring |
Note: You can replace glutinous rice flour with regular rice flour, but the texture will be different. If you do not have access to banana leaves, you can serve the dumplings without wrapping them!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the coconut milk, and mix until you form a smooth dough. If it’s too dry, add a little water.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the grated coconut with sugar. This will be your sweet filling.
- Shape the dumplings: Take a small ball of dough (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it in your palm. Put a spoonful of the coconut filling in the center, and fold the dough over the filling to seal it. Roll it into a smooth ball.
- Wrap with banana leaves (optional): If using banana leaves, cut them into squares. Place the dumpling in the center, fold the leaves over, and tie them with kitchen twine.
- Steam the dumplings: Set up a steamer or a pot with a steaming rack. Place the dumplings on the rack and steam for about 30 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy: Once done, remove the dumplings from the steamer. Let them cool slightly and enjoy your delicious Banh It Nhan Dua!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 180 | 9% |
| Protein | 2 g | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g | 12% |
| Fats | 4 g | 6% |
| Sugars | 10 g | N/A |
| Fiber | 1 g | 4% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize your filling: Feel free to add other ingredients such as mung beans or crushed peanuts for added flavor!
- Perfect dough: Ensure your dough is not too sticky. If it is, add a little more flour while kneading.
- Don’t rush the steaming: Steaming for the full time ensures they are cooked through and soft.
- Keep an eye on water levels: Make sure to add water to the steamer as needed, so it doesn’t dry out!
FAQs
What does Banh It Nhan Dua taste like?
Banh It Nhan Dua has a sweet and creamy flavor from the coconut, combined with a chewy rice texture that makes it really enjoyable.
Can I use regular rice flour instead of glutinous rice flour?
Yes, but the texture will be different. Glutinous rice flour gives these dumplings their chewy consistency.
How do I store leftovers?
You can store Banh It Nhan Dua in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a steamer before serving.
Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dumplings in advance and steam them when you’re ready to serve.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, Banh It Nhan Dua is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone!
What can I serve with Banh It Nhan Dua?
These dumplings pair nicely with a cup of tea or coffee as a sweet snack.
What is the role of coconut milk in this recipe?
Coconut milk adds richness and a lovely coconut flavor to both the dough and the filling, making the dumplings delicious!
Can I freeze Banh It Nhan Dua?
Yes! You can freeze the dumplings before steaming them. Just steam them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.
How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings will be firm to the touch and slightly translucent when cooked. Steam them for about 30 minutes for best results.
Can I add different flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! You can incorporate pandan extract for a green color and a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Now you’ve learned how to make delicious Banh It Nhan Dua at home! This recipe not only gives you a tasty dessert but also introduces you to a wonderful part of Vietnamese culture. So gather your ingredients and start creating these sweet coconut dumplings today! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
