Elevate your next meal with this exotic, nut-free banana leaf wrapped rice recipe—perfect for allergy-friendly cooking! Infused with the aromatic flavors of coconut milk, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and lemongrass, this long grain white rice is steamed to perfection inside pliable banana leaves, creating a fragrant, moist, and visually stunning dish. Not only does the banana leaf add subtle earthy notes, but it also locks in moisture and seals in the vibrant spices. This cooking technique is ideal for special occasions or a fun twist on meal prep. Serve these individual rice packets garnished with fresh coriander for an authentic presentation that’s as delicious as it is visually enticing. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free, nut-free recipes or just exploring global cuisines, this dish is a flavorful and wholesome option sure to impress!
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 3.5 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, prepare additional flavorings: Peel and finely mince the fresh ginger and garlic cloves. Trim the lemongrass stalk, removing the outer layer, then finely chop the tender inner section.
After the rice has cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly. Stir in the coconut milk, turmeric powder, ginger, garlic, and lemongrass until well combined.
Prepare the banana leaves by wiping them with a damp cloth. Run them briefly over a low flame or hot pan to make them pliable.
Place a large banana leaf flat on the counter, shiny side up. Spoon about half a cup of the flavored rice onto the center of the leaf.
Fold the sides of the leaf over the rice, then fold the ends over to create a secure package. Tie the package with cooking string to hold it in place. Repeat for the remaining rice and banana leaves.
Set up a steamer or use a large pot with a steaming rack. Fill with enough water, but not so much that it touches the steaming rack. Bring the water to a boil.
Place the banana leaf packages on the steaming rack, cover, and steam for about 30 minutes on medium heat.
Carefully remove the steamed rice packages using kitchen tongs. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Garnish the opened packets with coriander leaves before serving.
Calories |
706 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.3 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g | 3% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2437 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 159.0 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.0 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.4 g | ||
| Protein | 13.2 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 177 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 11.7 mg | 65% | |
| Potassium | 555 mg | 12% | |
*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.