Learn how to make Puto, a popular Filipino snack or dessert. These steamed rice cakes are soft, fluffy, and can be enjoyed plain or flavored with cheese or ube. Try this easy-to-follow recipe today!

Here's a simple recipe for Puto:

Ingredients:

  - 2 cups rice flour

  - 1/2 cup sugar

  - 1 tablespoon baking powder

  - 1/2 teaspoon salt

  - 1 1/2 cups coconut milk

  - 1/2 cup water

  - Cheese or ube (purple yam), sliced into small cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a bowl, combine rice flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2- Gradually add coconut milk and water to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

3- Pour the batter into greased puto molds, filling each mold about 3/4 full.

4- Add cheese or ube cubes on top of the batter if desired.

5- Steam the puto over medium heat for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6- Remove from heat and let it cool before serving. Enjoy your delicious puto!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Puto recipe (per serving, without cheese or ube):

Rice flour (1 cup):

  - Calories: 578

  - Carbohydrates: 128g

  - Protein: 8g

  - Fat: 1g

  - Fiber: 4g

benefits:

  - Gluten-free: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

  - Rich in carbohydrates: Provides energy for the body.

  - Contains some protein and fiber.

Sugar (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 387

  - Carbohydrates: 100g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Fiber: 0g

benefits:

  - Provides a quick source of energy.

  - Adds sweetness to the dish.

  - Note: Excessive sugar consumption should be avoided due to its link to various health issues.

Baking powder (1 tbsp):

  - Calories: 5

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Fiber: 0g

benefits:

  - Helps the puto rise and become fluffy.

  - Contains sodium bicarbonate, which can aid in digestion.

Salt (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Fiber: 0g

benefits:

  - Adds flavor to the dish.

  - Contains essential minerals like sodium and chloride, which are necessary for the body's functions.

Coconut milk (1 1/2 cups):

  - Calories: 960

  - Carbohydrates: 20g

  - Protein: 10g

  - Fat: 100g

  - Fiber: 0g

benefits:

  - High in healthy saturated fats, which can boost HDL (good) cholesterol.

  - Contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

  - Rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium.

Water (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Fiber: 0g

benefits:

  - Hydration: Water is crucial for maintaining the body's fluid balance, which supports vital functions like circulation, digestion, and temperature regulation.

  - Supports Kidney Function: Adequate water intake helps the kidneys filter waste from the blood and excrete it through urine, reducing the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections.

  - Promotes Healthy Skin: Staying hydrated helps maintain skin elasticity and can prevent dryness, promoting a healthy, glowing complexion.

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used.