Suman

Suman is a traditional Filipino rice cake that is made from glutinous rice. This rice is soaked in water, drained, and then wrapped in leaves before being cooked. The cooking process involves boiling or steaming the wrapped rice until it becomes a firm and sticky cake. Suman is often served during special occasions and is a popular delicacy in many regions of the Philippines.

Ingredients and Preparation

The primary ingredient in suman is glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice. This type of rice is known for its high starch content, which gives the suman its characteristic sticky texture. The rice is typically soaked in water overnight to soften it and make it easier to cook.

After the rice has been soaked, it is drained and then wrapped in leaves. The type of leaf used can vary depending on the region, but common choices include banana leaves, palm leaves, and anahaw leaves. The leaves not only hold the rice together during cooking but also impart a unique flavor to the suman.

Once the rice is wrapped, the suman is ready to be cooked. This is typically done by boiling or steaming the suman until the rice is fully cooked and has a firm, sticky texture. The cooking process can take several hours, depending on the size of the suman.

Varieties

There are many different varieties of suman in the Philippines, each with its own unique ingredients and preparation methods. Some of the most popular varieties include suman sa ibos, suman sa lihiya, and suman sa inantala.

Suman sa ibos is a type of suman that is wrapped in buri palm leaves in a distinctive twill pattern. It is often served with a side of sugar or latik, a syrup made from coconut milk and brown sugar.

Suman sa lihiya is a variety of suman that is made with lye water, which gives it a distinctive yellow color. It is usually served with a side of coconut sauce or grated coconut.

Suman sa inantala is a type of suman that is made with a mixture of regular rice and glutinous rice. It is often served with a topping of caramel sauce or latik.

Cultural Significance

Suman is often served during special occasions in the Philippines, such as birthdays, weddings, and religious festivals. It is also a popular snack or dessert and is commonly sold in markets and by street vendors. In addition to its role in Filipino cuisine, suman is also significant in Filipino culture as a symbol of sharing and community.