Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Ed Joven
Savoring Tradition: Binignit Recipe – A Sweet Taste of Filipino Heritage
Binignit Recipe is a well-loved traditional dish that tantalizes the taste buds and carries a slice of cultural history. Hailing from the Visayan region, particularly cherished by Cebuanos, Binignit isn't just a dish; it's a celebration of community, spirituality, and resourcefulness.
During the solemnity of Holy Week, Binignit takes center stage, especially on Good Friday, when devout Catholics honor their faith by fasting and abstaining from meat. Its roots trace back to the Spanish colonial period when farmers ingeniously crafted this dish as a sustaining meal during Lenten fasting.
The heart of Binignit lies in its humble ingredients, each carefully selected to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Coconut milk forms the creamy base, enveloping an array of treasures from the earth: tubers like sweet potatoes and taro, the comforting chewiness of glutinous rice, the delicate sweetness of saba bananas, and the occasional pop of Landang or sago pearls. Sometimes, ripe jackfruit joins the medley, adding a burst of tropical sweetness.
What sets Binignit apart is its ingredients and the love and tradition that go into its making. It's a dish that transcends mere sustenance; it symbolizes togetherness as families gather around to prepare it, sharing stories and laughter while chopping, stirring, and simmering.
As the aroma of coconut milk fills the air and the ingredients meld together in harmony, Binignit becomes more than just food—it's a sensory experience that evokes memories of childhood, gatherings with loved ones, and generations past.
Beyond its culinary delights, Binignit carries a more profound significance in Filipino culture. It's a dish that honors the land and the labor of those who toil upon it. It's a reminder of resilience in the face of hardship, as farmers found sustenance and strength in its humble ingredients.
In today's fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps tradition, Binignit is a testament to Filipino heritage's enduring spirit. It's a dish that invites us to slow down, savor each spoonful, and appreciate life's simple pleasures.
So, the next time you delve into a bowl of Binignit, take a moment to reflect on its journey—from the fields tended by hardworking hands to the table, where it brings joy and nourishment. Let its flavors transport you to the sun-drenched shores of the Visayas, where tradition and taste intertwine to celebrate all that is good and true.
Ingredients and Cooking Procedure of Binignit: |
In every bite of Binignit, you taste not just the sweetness of coconut milk or the earthiness of Tubers but the essence of Filipino culture—a tapestry woven with love, history, and a deep reverence for the land's bounty.
Binignit Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 cups Coconut Milk
- 2 cups Water
- ½ cup Glutinous Rice Pilit
- 2 cups Purple Yam cubes
- 1½ cups Taro or Gabi cubes
- 1½ cups Sweet Potato cubes
- 3 pcs Saba slice
- 1 cup Large Tapioca Pearls Sago, cooked
- 1 cup Sweet Jackfruit Langka, strips
- ½ cup Brown Sugar adjust according to your taste
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Ube Extract
- 1 cup Coconut Cream
Instructions
** Watch the video for detailed steps in cooking this recipe
- In a large Pot, combine Coconut Milk & Water, then bring to a simmer.
- Add Glutinous Rice, stir & simmer for 15 mins. on a medium heat.
- Add Sweet Potato, Purple Yam & Taro & cook for about 10mins. or until tender.
- Add Saba, Tapioca Pearls, Jackfruit strips & cook for 5mins.
- Lastly, add Coconut Cream, Ube Extract, Sugar & Salt, to taste.
- Adjust sweetness according to your preference.
- Once cooked, transfer to a serving bowl and serve while hot!
Video
Nutrition
Here are some tips to help you cook Binignit like a pro:
- Select Fresh Ingredients: To enhance the flavor and texture of your Binignit, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. For the best results, choose ripe bananas, sweet potatoes, and taro.
- Prepare Ingredients Properly: Peel and cut your ingredients into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This enhances the presentation and ensures that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
- Use Coconut Milk Wisely: Coconut milk is a key ingredient in Binignit, providing richness and creaminess to the dish. Be mindful not to boil the coconut milk vigorously as it may separate or curdle. Instead, gently simmer it to incorporate the flavors without compromising the texture.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Binignit is traditionally sweetened with brown sugar or muscovado sugar. Taste your Binignit as it cooks and adjust the sweetness according to your preference. Add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste, or reduce it slightly for a milder flavor.
- Don't Overcook the Ingredients: While ensuring that all the ingredients are cooked through is essential, be careful not to overcook them. Overcooking can result in mushy textures and loss of flavor. Keep an eye on the pot and remove it from heat once the ingredients are tender but retain their shape.
- Add Sticky Rice Balls (Bilo-Bilo) Last: If you're adding bilo-bilo (sticky rice balls) to your Binignit, add them towards the end of the cooking process. This prevents them from becoming too soft or falling apart. Cook the bilo-bilo until they float to the surface, indicating they're done.
- Garnish with Latik: For an extra indulgent touch, garnish your Binignit with latik—a mixture of coconut milk and brown sugar simmered until golden brown and caramelized. Latik adds a delightful sweetness and texture to the dish, elevating it to new heights of flavor.
- Serve Warm or Chilled: Depending on your preference and the weather, Binignit can be warm or chilled. If serving warm, ladle the hot Binignit into bowls and enjoy it immediately. For a refreshing treat on a hot day, chill the Binignit in the refrigerator before serving.
With these tips, you'll be well-equipped to cook a delicious batch of Binignit that will impress your friends and family.
Storing Leftover Binignit:
Store leftover Binignit in a proper container to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here's how to best store it:
- Cool Down Properly: Allow the leftover Binignit to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Placing hot food in the refrigerator can raise its internal temperature and promote bacterial growth.
- Transfer to Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled Binignit into clean, airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well for storing soups and stews like Binignit. Make sure the containers are clean and dry to prevent contamination.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Once the Binignit is transferred to airtight containers, promptly place them in the refrigerator. Refrigeration helps slow down bacterial growth and preserves the dish's freshness. Store the Binignit in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
- Label and Date: To keep track of storage times, label the containers with the date when the Binignit was cooked. This helps you identify how long it has been stored and ensures you consume it within a safe timeframe.
- Consume Within 2-3 Days: Leftover Binignit should be consumed within 2-3 days of refrigeration to ensure its quality and safety. While eating beyond this timeframe may still be safe, the flavor and texture may deteriorate.
- Reheat Safely: When reheating leftover Binignit, ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria that may have multiplied during storage. You can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Avoid Freezing: While Binignit can be frozen, the texture of some ingredients, such as bananas and sweet potatoes, may change upon thawing, resulting in a mushy consistency. If you prefer to freeze leftovers, consider removing these ingredients before freezing and adding them fresh when reheating.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your leftover Binignit safely and deliciously for days. Just remember always to use proper food safety practices and trust your senses—if the Binignit looks or smells off, it's best to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
Discover the joy of preparing Binignit with our easy-to-follow recipe provided in this article. Savor the aromatic blend of coconut milk, sweet potatoes, bananas, and other traditional ingredients, creating a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With simple steps and helpful tips, you'll find yourself confidently cooking up a pot of Binignit that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine and brings warmth to your table. Whether you're craving a taste of home or eager to explore new culinary delights, our Binignit recipe promises a satisfying and memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones.
Related Filipino Traditional Dessert:
Don't be intimidated by the thought of making these Filipino desserts. They are a delicious exploration of sweet and savory flavors, and surprisingly easy to make! If you're looking to expand your dessert repertoire, consider these traditional treats. From the creamy richness of Ube Maja Blanca to the refreshing blend of Ginataang Bilo Bilo textures and the colorful ingredients of Ginataang Halo Halo, there's a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Learn how to make Bilo Bilo, the classic chewy tapioca pearl dish, or try your hand at Crispy Maruya, fried banana fritters. Remember the delightful contrast of Palitaw, chewy rice cakes topped with grated coconut, or the pandan-infused sweetness of Pandan Biko. And don't forget the delectable Kutsinta, steamed rice cakes with a delightful wobble. Finally, master the art on how to Cook Sago, a versatile ingredient that adds delightful pops of texture to many Filipino desserts.
No matter your preference, these recipes will introduce you to the beautiful world of Filipino kakanin!
ken lovme says
this recipe is really good and delicious, we made this last Good Friday and the kids loved it so much!!!
anabelle lazo says
This is good for the Holy Week, I'll this recipe tomorrow! Thanks for sharing!!!