Malagkit: Discover the History and Health Benefits

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated September 12, 2022

What is malagkit?

Malagkit is a type of rice that’s known for being “sticky.” It’s a popular ingredient in Filipino cuisine and is used in many dishes including suman, bibingka, and latik.

Malagkit is a short-grain rice that’s high in amylopectin starch, which makes it sticky when cooked. It’s native to China but has been grown in the Philippines since the 16th century. It’s also grown in Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

In this article, I’ll discuss what malagkit is, how it’s different from other types of rice, and how it’s used in Filipino cuisine.

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Malagkit: A Filipino Sticky Rice Delight

Malagkit is a type of rice that is commonly known as glutinous or sticky rice. It is a staple in many Asian countries, including the Philippines. The word “malagkit” is derived from the Tagalog word “bilog,” which means “round.” This type of rice is shorter and plumper than regular white rice and has a higher starch content, which makes it stickier when cooked.

How to Cook Malagkit

Cooking malagkit is simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s a recipe to try:

• Ingredients: 2 cups malagkit rice, 2 cups water, 1 cup coconut milk, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp salt
• Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least an hour.
• In a pot, combine the rice, water, coconut milk, brown sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
• Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
• Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Malagkit as a Dessert

Malagkit is a popular ingredient in many Filipino desserts, such as bibingka, suman, and latik. Here are some ideas for using malagkit in your holiday desserts:

• Bibingka: This is a type of rice cake that is traditionally eaten during Christmas. It is made with malagkit rice, coconut milk, and sugar and is usually topped with salted egg, cheese, and butter.
• Suman: This is a type of sticky rice roll that is filled with a sweet filling, such as mixed nuts or coconut. It is usually wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked.
• Latik: This is a type of coconut syrup that is made by caramelizing coconut milk and sugar. It is often used as a topping for Filipino desserts, including malagkit.

Where to Find Malagkit

Malagkit is widely available in Asian supermarkets and online. It is usually sold in both white and darker colors, with the darker color having a nuttier flavor. Coconut milk is a vital ingredient in most malagkit recipes, as it gives a balance to the cloyingly sweet rice.

Glutinous Rice: The Sticky Grain You Want to Add to Your Food List

Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice, is a type of rice that is popularly cultivated and eaten in Asian countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is a type of short-grain rice that is known for its sticky consistency when cooked. Despite its name, glutinous rice does not contain gluten.

What Dishes Can You Make with Glutinous Rice?

Glutinous rice is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some popular dishes that use glutinous rice:

• Sumansumansuman, budbud, and buli: These are Filipino treats made of glutinous rice wrapped in buri or palm leaves and steamed.
• Sticky rice cakes: These are sweet cakes made of glutinous rice and sweetened with sugar or coconut milk.
• Beef or tomato sauce with glutinous rice: This is a savory dish where glutinous rice is served with beef or tomato sauce.
• Glutinous rice balls: These are sweet balls made of glutinous rice and usually filled with sweetened bean paste.
• Glutinous rice stuffed with longganisa, tapa, torta, adobo, stewed liver, pochero, or bananas: These are popular Filipino dishes where glutinous rice is stuffed with various meats and stews.

Is Glutinous Rice a Healthier Option?

Glutinous rice is a great option for those who want to add variety to their diet. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Glutinous rice is high in carbohydrates and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation.
• It is a good source of fiber and can aid in digestion and weight management.
• Glutinous rice is gluten-free, making it a good option for those with gluten intolerance.
• It is a satisfying grain that can help you feel full for longer periods.

Glutinous rice is available in most Asian stores and can be exported to other parts of the globe. So, if you want to learn more about this satisfying grain, check out its Wikipedia page and start cooking with it today!

The Sticky History of Malagkit: From China to the Philippines

Malagkit, also known as glutinous rice or sticky rice, is a type of rice that is commonly used in Asian cuisine. The word “malagkit” literally means “sticky” in Filipino, which perfectly describes the texture of this rice. However, malagkit is not just a Filipino staple. It has a long and interesting history that dates back to ancient China.

• Malagkit is a type of short-grain rice that is high in amylopectin, a type of starch that makes it sticky when cooked.
• In Chinese cuisine, malagkit is referred to as “sweet rice” or “glutinous rice” and is often used to make traditional dishes like zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and niangao (sticky rice cake).
• In Japanese cuisine, malagkit is called mochigome and is used to make mochi, a popular sweet treat made from pounded sticky rice.
• In Korean cuisine, malagkit is called chapssal and is used to make tteok (rice cakes).
• In Southeast Asian cuisine, malagkit is used to make a variety of dishes, including rice cakes, porridge, and sticky rice desserts.

The Spread of Malagkit: From China to the Philippines

Malagkit has played an essential role in Filipino cuisine for centuries. It is a popular choice for making a variety of dishes, from savory meals to sweet desserts. But how did malagkit make its way to the Philippines?

• Some believe that malagkit was introduced to the Philippines by Chinese traders who came to the country to trade goods.
• Others believe that malagkit was already a common grain in the Philippines and was simply named after the Chinese word for sticky rice.
• Regardless of its origins, malagkit has become a beloved ingredient in Filipino cuisine and is featured in many popular dishes, including:

– Biko: A sweet rice cake made with malagkit, coconut milk, and brown sugar.
– Puto: A steamed rice cake made with malagkit flour and coconut milk.
– Pancit Malagkit: A stir-fried dish made with malagkit noodles, pork, and vegetables.
– Suman: A type of rice cake made with malagkit and coconut milk, usually wrapped in banana leaves.

Malagkit in Filipino Cuisine: A Versatile Ingredient

Malagkit is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory. Here are some ideas for using malagkit in your cooking:

• Coconut Sticky Rice: A sweet and creamy dessert made with malagkit, coconut milk, and sugar.
• Malagkit Bread: A soft and chewy bread made with malagkit flour and yeast.
• Malagkit Ice Cream: A creamy and delicious ice cream made with malagkit flour and coconut milk.
• Pork Adobo with Malagkit: A savory dish made with pork, soy sauce, vinegar, and malagkit.
• Grilled Beef Skewers with Malagkit: A delicious and budget-friendly meal made with marinated beef and malagkit.
• Seafood Paella with Malagkit: A Filipino twist on the classic Spanish dish, made with malagkit instead of white rice.

Careful When Making Malagkit: Tips and Tricks

Making malagkit can be a bit difficult, especially if you’re not used to working with this type of rice. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:

• Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch.
• Use the right amount of water when cooking malagkit. The ratio of rice to water is usually 1:1.5.
• Allow the rice to soak in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help it cook evenly.
• Be careful not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy and lose its texture.
• When making sweet dishes with malagkit, use a mixture of coconut milk and water to give it a creamy and delicious taste.
• When making savory dishes with malagkit, try adding pickled vegetables or a spicy sauce to give it some extra flavor.

The Future of Malagkit: A Popular Ingredient Here to Stay

Malagkit has been a popular ingredient in Filipino cuisine for centuries, and it shows no signs of slowing down. With its unique texture and delicious taste, malagkit is the perfect ingredient for a wide range of dishes, from sweet to savory. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, malagkit is a great ingredient to start with. So why not give it a try and see what delicious dishes you can create?

Coconut Topping: The Perfect Finish to Your Malagkit Rice

Adding a coconut topping to your malagkit rice can take it from a simple dish to a pretty and delicious dessert. Here’s how to prepare the perfect coconut topping:

• In a shallow saucepot, mix together 1 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of water.
• Simultaneously, heat the mixture on medium heat while stirring until the sugar dissolves.
• Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• As the liquid evaporates, the mixture will thicken and turn into a caramel sauce.
• When the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, it’s ready.
• Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool.

Choosing the Right Material

When preparing the coconut topping, it’s important to choose the right material. Here are some tips:

• Use a shallow saucepot instead of a deep one. This will help the liquid evaporate faster and the mixture to thicken quicker.
• Use a non-stick pan to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom.

Alternative Coconut Topping

If you don’t have the time to prepare the coconut topping, you can use ready-made coconut cream instead. Here’s how to use it:

• In a small saucepan, heat the coconut cream on medium heat until it thickens.
• Spoon the thickened coconut cream over the malagkit rice.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storing Malagkit Leftovers: Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips on how to store your leftover malagkit:

• Allow the malagkit to cool down to room temperature before storing it.
• Line a baking dish with a pandan leaf or any food-grade plastic wrap.
• Spread the malagkit evenly on the dish and make sure it is slightly wet.
• Cover the dish with another pandan leaf or plastic wrap.
• Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to three days.

How to Store Malagkit Topped with Coconut

If your malagkit is topped with coconut, follow these steps to store it:

• Allow the malagkit to cool down to room temperature before storing it.
• Fold the pandan leaf or plastic wrap over the malagkit and coconut topping.
• Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Note:

• When making malagkit, it is easier to prepare a medium-sized batch to avoid wastage.
• To increase the nutrition content of your malagkit, you can add young coconut meat or mix it with other ingredients like sweet potatoes or brown sugar.
• Don’t forget to mention in your recipe review or share it on Facebook, Pinterest, or email to update your ultimate malagkit recipe.

Is Malagkit Good for You?

Malagkit rice, also known as glutinous rice, is a type of rice that is specifically grown for its sticky texture. Unlike regular rice, malagkit rice contains high levels of amylopectin, a type of starch that gives it its unique texture. This makes it perfect for a variety of dishes, especially desserts like puto and other rice cakes.

Is Malagkit Rice Healthy?

While malagkit rice is not as nutritious as brown rice, it does have some health benefits. Here are some reasons why malagkit rice can be a healthy addition to your diet:

• Low in fat: Malagkit rice is low in fat, making it a good option for those watching their calorie intake.
• Gluten-free: Malagkit rice is gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• High in carbohydrates: Malagkit rice is high in carbohydrates, which can provide energy for your body.

How to Incorporate Malagkit Rice into Your Diet

If you’re looking to add more malagkit rice into your diet, here are some ideas:

• Make desserts: Malagkit rice is perfect for making desserts like puto and other rice cakes.
• Use it as a side dish: Malagkit rice can be served as a side dish to complement your main course.
• Try it in savory dishes: Malagkit rice can also be used in savory dishes like rice porridge or congee.

Supporting Local Farmers with Malagkit Rice

By choosing to buy malagkit rice from local farmers, you can support the local economy and help small-scale farmers. One example is the HMR (Harvesters Multi-Purpose Cooperative) in the Philippines, which produces high-quality malagkit rice while also promoting sustainable agriculture practices. So not only can you enjoy the unique taste and texture of malagkit rice, but you can also make a positive impact on the community.

Conclusion

Malagkit is a type of Filipino rice that’s known for being sticky. It’s traditionally used in desserts like bibingka and suman, but it’s also used in savory dishes like latik and adobo.

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Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.