Bilo-bilo

Bilo-bilo is a traditional Filipino dessert made from small, glutinous rice balls (the bilo-bilo), cooked in a sweet coconut milk broth with various other ingredients. It is a popular dish served during special occasions and festivities in the Philippines.

Ingredients

The main ingredient of bilo-bilo is the glutinous rice balls, which are made by mixing glutinous rice flour with water and forming it into small balls. These balls are then cooked in a sweet broth made from coconut milk and brown sugar.

Other ingredients commonly added to bilo-bilo include jackfruit, sago pearls, and sweet potato. These ingredients add different textures and flavors to the dish, making it a complex and satisfying dessert.

Preparation

To prepare bilo-bilo, the glutinous rice balls are first cooked in boiling water until they float to the surface, indicating that they are fully cooked. The coconut milk and brown sugar are then added to the pot, creating a sweet broth in which the other ingredients are cooked.

The jackfruit, sago pearls, and sweet potato are added to the pot and cooked until they are soft and have absorbed the flavors of the broth. The dish is then served hot, often in individual bowls.

Cultural Significance

Bilo-bilo is a significant dish in Filipino culture, often served during special occasions such as Christmas, New Year's, and fiestas. It is also commonly served during the Holy Week, particularly on Good Friday.

See Also

• Filipino cuisine
• List of Filipino desserts
• Glutinous rice
• Coconut milk
• Sago pearls