Sticky rice in bamboo

Sticky Rice in Bamboo (also known as Khao Lam) is a traditional Southeast Asian dish, particularly popular in Thailand, Laos, and parts of China. It is a type of glutinous rice that is cooked inside a section of bamboo, giving it a unique flavor and texture.

Preparation

The preparation of Sticky Rice in Bamboo involves soaking the glutinous rice in water for several hours or overnight. The soaked rice is then mixed with coconut milk, sugar, and sometimes black beans or taro. This mixture is packed into bamboo tubes, which are then sealed with banana leaves and placed over a fire or in a charcoal brazier to cook. The heat from the fire causes the bamboo to char and the rice inside to steam, resulting in a sweet, sticky dish with a smoky flavor.

Cultural Significance

Sticky Rice in Bamboo is often associated with festivals and celebrations in Southeast Asia. In Thailand, it is a common sight at the Loy Krathong festival, while in Laos it is often enjoyed during the Boun Bang Fai, or Rocket Festival. The dish is also a popular street food and is commonly sold at markets and roadside stalls.

Variations

There are several variations of Sticky Rice in Bamboo across different regions. In China, a similar dish known as Zongzi is made by wrapping the rice in bamboo leaves instead of cooking it inside bamboo tubes. In the Philippines, a dish called Biko is made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar, but it is cooked in a pot rather than in bamboo.

See Also

• Glutinous rice
• Bamboo Cookware
• Southeast Asian Cuisine