Puto Bumbong: The Delicious Filipino Delicacy

Introduction:

Did you know that Puto Bumbong, a popular Filipino delicacy, gets its name from the bamboo tubes it is traditionally cooked in?

The dish is made from glutinous rice and is typically purple in color, due to the use of a special variety of rice called "galapong" mixed with a little bit of "pandan" extract.

This delicacy is a staple during the Christmas season and can be found in most Filipino markets, street vendors, and even in many Filipino-owned stores abroad.

Origins:

Puto Bumbong has its origins in the Philippines, specifically in the Ilocos Region.
It is believed to have been first made by the Ilocano people, an ethnic group in the Philippines, centuries ago.
The dish quickly spread throughout the country and is now enjoyed by Filipinos of all backgrounds.

Preparation:

To make Puto Bumbong, the glutinous rice is soaked overnight and then ground into a fine powder.
The powder is then mixed with water and some "pandan" extract, giving it its distinctive purple color.

The mixture is then stuffed into bamboo tubes and steamed over high heat for about 20 minutes.
Once cooked, the puto bumbong is removed from the bamboo tubes and topped with butter, shredded coconut, and a sprinkle of brown sugar.

Eating Puto Bumbong:

Puto Bumbong is best eaten warm and fresh off the steamer.
It is typically enjoyed as a snack, but it can also be eaten as a dessert.
Some people like to add a bit of grated cheese on top, while others prefer to eat it plain.

Variations:

Puto Bumbong is not the only delicacy made from glutinous rice in the Philippines. There are other variations of Puto such as Puto Lanson, Puto Maya, Puto Seko, among others
Some variations use other ingredients like cheese, ube, or pandan leaves to give it a different flavor and appearance.

Conclusion:

Puto Bumbong is a delicious and unique Filipino delicacy that has been enjoyed by Filipinos for centuries.
Its origins can be traced back to the Ilocos Region, but it is now enjoyed by Filipinos all over the world.

Whether eaten as a snack or a dessert, Puto Bumbong is a must-try for anyone interested in Filipino cuisine. So next time you see it, give it a try and taste the deliciousness of the Puto Bumbong.