Delicious Pinipig Delight: A Traditional Filipino Dessert Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pinipig (uncooked)
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup fresh milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1 ripe banana, sliced
  • 1/4 cup jackfruit, sliced
  • 1/2 cup kaong (sugar palm fruit)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup shaved ice
  • 1 tablespoon of leche flan (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon of ube halaya (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the pinipig under cold water and set aside to dry.
  2. In a pan over medium heat, toast the pinipig until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, combine coconut milk, fresh milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the toasted pinipig. Stir continuously.
  5. Add the dissolved cornstarch and continue to stir until the mixture thickens.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool.
  7. In serving bowls, place a scoop of the pinipig mixture.
  8. Add a layer of the diced mango, sliced banana, sliced jackfruit, and kaong.
  9. Top with shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, leche flan, and ube halaya if using.
  10. Repeat for each serving bowl. Serve immediately.

Tools for making

  • Pan - for toasting the pinipig and heating the coconut milk mixture
  • Spatula - for stirring the pinipig and the coconut milk mixture
  • Measuring cups - for accurately measuring the pinipig, coconut milk, fresh milk, and sugar
  • Measuring spoons - for accurately measuring the vanilla extract, cornstarch, and salt
  • Knife - for dicing the mango and slicing the banana and jackfruit
  • Serving bowls - for serving the pinipig mixture and toppings
  • Whisk - for dissolving the cornstarch in water
  • Shaved ice machine - for creating shaved ice

Recipe variations

  • Replace pinipig with rice flakes or crushed rice cereal for a different texture.
  • Use almond milk or soy milk instead of coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
  • Add different fruits such as strawberries, watermelon, or pineapple.
  • Replace the sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream for a richer flavor.
  • Add toasted coconut flakes or crushed nuts for added crunch.
  • Experiment with different flavored extracts such as pandan or coconut.
  • For a chocolate twist, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the layers.
  • Include other Filipino sweets such as macapuno (coconut sport) or nata de coco (coconut gel).
  • Create a layered effect by alternating the pinipig mixture with layers of fruit and sweet toppings.
  • Make it more indulgent by adding a scoop of ice cream on top.

Recipe overview

This is a delightful and refreshing recipe for Pinipig, a popular Filipino dessert made from pounded green rice flakes. It incorporates a symphony of flavors from the sweet and creamy coconut milk, fresh milk, and sugar base, elevated with tropical fruits like mango, banana, and jackfruit. The recipe is fairly straightforward and easy to prepare, perfect for a hot summer day or whenever you're craving a sweet, cool treat. The dessert is served chilled, topped with shaved ice and optional dollops of leche flan and ube halaya for an added burst of richness. This Pinipig recipe promises a unique and indulgent experience, brimming with textures and traditional Filipino tastes.

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen pinipig instead of uncooked pinipig? No, it is best to use uncooked pinipig for this recipe to achieve the desired texture and taste.
  2. Can I substitute coconut milk with another type of milk? Yes, you can use another type of milk such as almond milk or soy milk as a substitute for coconut milk. However, it will alter the traditional flavor of the dish.
  3. Can I add other fruits? Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute different fruits according to your preference. Some popular additions include ripe papaya, pineapple chunks, or even strawberries.
  4. Can I omit the sweetened condensed milk? Yes, you can omit the sweetened condensed milk if you prefer a less sweet dessert. However, it adds a creamy and rich flavor to the dish.
  5. How long does it take for the pinipig mixture to cool? The pinipig mixture usually takes about 15-20 minutes to cool down to room temperature.
  6. Can I prepare the pinipig mixture in advance? Yes, you can prepare the pinipig mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it is best to add the fruits, shaved ice, and other toppings just before serving to maintain their freshness.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
  • Whisk - Used to stir and combine the ingredients smoothly.
  • Pan - A cooking pan used for toasting the pinipig and making the pinipig mixture.
  • Serving bowls - Bowls in which the pinipig dessert will be served.
  • Spoon - Used for stirring, serving, and eating the dessert.
  • Knife - For slicing the mango, banana, and jackfruit.
  • Measuring cups - To accurately measure the pinipig, coconut milk, fresh milk, and sugar.
  • Measuring spoons - Used to measure the vanilla extract, cornstarch, and salt.
  • Slotted spoon - Used to scoop out the pinipig from the pan.

Origin stories

Pinipig, which serves as the base of this delightful dessert, is more than just a simple grain in the Philippine culinary scene; it carries a cultural heritage that stretches back through the ages. This humble ingredient is derived from immature glutinous rice that's pounded to dehusk, hence the name "pinipig" which means "pounded rice". It's traditionally made by farmers during the harvest season and is often used in sweet treats and savory dishes alike. This particular recipe, with its colorful combination of pinipig, fruits, and shaved ice, is reminiscent of the classic Filipino dessert, "halo-halo", which aptly translates to "mix-mix". It reflects the Philippines' rich culinary diversity, stirred together in one heaping, delightful bowl. Just as the islands of the Philippines are a blend of different cultures and influences, so too is this dessert a delicious mix of all things bright and wonderful.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.