Heart-Healthy Biko
Indulge in the timeless Filipino dessert with a nutritious twist—Heart-Healthy Biko. This reimagined recipe swaps traditional ingredients for wholesome alternatives like whole grain glutinous rice, light coconut milk, and natural honey, making it a guilt-free treat perfect for health-conscious sweet lovers. The rice is gently simmered and infused with a luscious, lightly sweetened coconut sauce, enriched with vanilla and a hint of sea salt for a balanced, satisfying flavor. Optional banana leaf lining adds an authentic touch while preventing sticking, making this dish not only delicious but eco-friendly. Ready in just over an hour and serving 8, this fiber-rich, cholesterol-friendly dessert is ideal for family gatherings or a wholesome snack. Perfect your healthy lifestyle while savoring this delightful Filipino classic!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole grain glutinous rice
- 2 cups light coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 0.5 cup honey
- 0.25 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 fresh banana leaves (optional, for lining)
Instructions
Rinse the whole grain glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, 1 cup of light coconut milk, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow the rice to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender.
In a separate saucepan, mix together the remaining 1 cup of light coconut milk, honey, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken.
Pour the coconut milk mixture into the pot with the cooked rice and mix well until the rice is thoroughly coated.
Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently, for an additional 15-20 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and sticky.
If using banana leaves, line a rectangular or square baking dish with them for an authentic presentation and lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
Transfer the cooked biko mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Allow the biko to cool to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your heart-healthy treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2324 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 25.9 g | 33% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.1 g | 101% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1286 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 496.6 g | 181% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.1 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 160.6 g | ||
| Protein | 32.2 g | 64% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 168 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 15.0 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 841 mg | 18% | |
*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.
