Cuchinta (Filipino Steamed Rice Cake)

Ingredients

Grated coconut

1 cup, for garnish

Lye water

1 tablespoon

Water

1 cup

Brown sugar

1 cup

Rice flour

1 cup

Cooking spray or oil

for greasing

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, brown sugar, water, and lye water. Stir thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2. Lightly grease the molds or cupcake liners with cooking spray or oil. This will ensure your Cuchinta doesn't stick and can be easily removed after steaming.
3. Pour the batter into the molds, filling each about 3/4 full. Be careful not to overfill to allow room for the cakes to expand while steaming.
4. Prepare your steamer by bringing the water to a boiling point.
5. Carefully place the filled molds in the steamer. Cover and steam for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
6. After steaming, remove the molds from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Once the Cuchinta has cooled, remove them from the molds and roll each piece in the grated coconut. This adds a delightful texture contrast and enhances the overall flavor.
8. Serve your homemade Cuchinta as a snack or dessert, and enjoy the authentic taste of this Filipino delicacy!