Banana Leaf Wrapped Rice

Transport your taste buds to the tropics with this aromatic and flavorful Banana Leaf Wrapped Rice recipe, a unique dish where fragrant jasmine rice is infused with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the citrusy notes of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and ginger. Wrapped in softened banana leaves and gently steamed, the rice absorbs an earthy, slightly smoky essence that elevates its flavor profile. Perfect as a main dish or a side, this recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also visually stunning, as diners unwrap their individual parcels to reveal the fragrant treasure within. Easy to prepare yet deeply satisfying, this dish is an excellent choice for impressing family and guests alike with its authentic Southeast Asian flair.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Jasmine rice
• 1.5 cups Coconut milk
• 0.5 cup Water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 stalk (bruised) Lemongrass
• 3 leaves Kaffir lime leaves
• 1 inch piece (sliced) Ginger
• 4 large pieces Banana leaves
• 1 optional (for tying) String

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.

Step 2

In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, water, salt, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and ginger. Heat gently over medium heat until it begins to simmer.

Step 3

Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring briefly. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender. Remove the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and ginger slices.

Step 4

While the rice cooks, prepare the banana leaves by passing them over an open flame or in hot water for a few seconds until they become pliable.

Step 5

Cut the banana leaves into large squares if necessary, ensuring they are big enough to enclose a portion of rice.

Step 6

Spoon a portion of the cooked rice onto the center of each banana leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the rice to form a parcel and secure with string if needed.

Step 7

Place a steaming rack or bamboo steamer over a pot of simmering water. Arrange the banana leaf parcels in the steamer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

Step 8

Cover the steamer and steam the parcels for 15-20 minutes over medium heat to allow the rice to absorb the banana leaf flavor.

Step 9

Carefully remove the parcels from the steamer. Serve warm as a main dish or accompaniment, letting diners unwrap their parcels at the table for an aromatic surprise.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1367.5 grams (1367.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	793

Total Fat 2.30g	3%
Saturated Fat 0.70g	3%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2431mg	106%
Total Carbohydrate 179.50g	65%
Dietary Fiber 2.10g	8%
Total Sugars 25.40g
Protein 13.90g	28%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 132mg	10%
Iron 11mg	62%
Potassium 1023mg	22%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 2.6%

Protein: 7.0%

Carbs: 90.4%