Dairy-Free Banana Leaf Wrapped Rice

Delight your senses with this aromatic and flavorful Dairy-Free Banana Leaf Wrapped Rice, a perfect fusion of tropical flair and wholesome comfort. This stunning recipe infuses fluffy jasmine rice with the creamy richness of coconut milk, the zesty fragrance of lime leaves, and a hint of turmeric for golden warmth. Wrapped in tender banana leaves and baked to perfection, this dish not only boasts a unique presentation but also seals in the steam, enhancing its fragrant spices and flavors. Ideal as a crowd-pleasing side or a light, plant-based main course, this dairy-free creation is naturally gluten-free and enriched with fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal freshness. Whether you’re entertaining or exploring adventurous culinary techniques, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant layers of flavor and enticing aroma.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 2.5 cups water
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 4 large leaves banana leaves
• 1 inch piece, sliced fresh ginger
• 4 lime leaves
• 0.5 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, coconut milk, ginger slices, lime leaves, salt, pepper, and turmeric powder. Stir to combine.

Step 3

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 5

Gently remove any thick stems from the banana leaves and rinse them thoroughly under hot water to soften. Pat dry with a clean towel.

Step 6

Cut the banana leaves into large squares, about 12 inches across. You will need about four squares.

Step 7

Once the rice is cooked, remove and discard the ginger slices and lime leaves.

Step 8

Add chopped cilantro to the rice and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 9

Place a banana leaf square, shiny side up, on a clean surface. Scoop a generous portion of the rice mixture into the center of the leaf.

Step 10

Fold the leaf over the rice to enclose it. You can secure the parcel with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 11

Repeat with the remaining banana leaves and rice mixture.

Step 12

Place the banana leaf-wrapped parcels on a baking sheet.

Step 13

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the aroma of banana leaves emerges.

Step 14

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 15

To serve, carefully unwrap the banana leaves and enjoy the fragrant rice. Can be served as a side dish or main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1670.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	694.5

Total Fat 1.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2394.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 154.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.2g	0%
Total Sugars 17.1g
Protein 13.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 124.2mg	0%
Iron 2.6mg	0%
Potassium 515.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 2.4%

Protein: 7.7%

Carbs: 89.9%