Paleo Suman (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)

Delight in the sophisticated fusion of tradition and modern dietary preferences with this Paleo Suman, a reimagined take on the beloved Filipino sticky rice cake. Crafted without grains, this recipe swaps traditional glutinous rice for cassava pearls and coconut flour, ensuring a gluten-free and paleo-friendly treat. Sweetened with raw honey and enriched with creamy full-fat coconut milk, each bite offers a luscious, naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the subtle vanilla aroma. Steamed to perfection in fragrant banana leaves, these tender, portable cakes are as visually alluring as they are delicious. Ideal as a guilt-free dessert or snack, this paleo suman is a flavorful nod to Filipino heritage, made adaptable for modern lifestyles and clean-eating enthusiasts.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut flour
• 1 cup cassava pearls (small or medium-sized)
• 1.5 cups full-fat coconut milk
• 0.25 cup raw honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.25 teaspoon sea salt
• 8 pieces banana leaves, cleaned and softened
• 8 pieces kitchen twine

Directions

Step 1

In a medium bowl, soak the cassava pearls in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain and set them aside.

Step 2

In a separate mixing bowl, combine coconut flour, coconut milk, raw honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until a smooth batter forms.

Step 3

Fold the drained cassava pearls into the batter, ensuring the mixture is evenly incorporated.

Step 4

Cut the banana leaves into approximately 10x10-inch squares and pass them over an open flame or stovetop burner to make them pliable. Be careful not to burn them.

Step 5

Lay one softened banana leaf square flat on a clean surface. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the batter mixture onto the center of the leaf.

Step 6

Fold the sides of the banana leaf inward, then roll it tightly to form a cylindrical shape. Fold the ends under and secure the roll with a piece of kitchen twine to keep it closed during steaming.

Step 7

Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining batter and banana leaves until all the batter is used.

Step 8

Place the wrapped suman in a steamer basket, leaving a little space between each piece for steam circulation. Steam over boiling water for 45 minutes, or until the cassava pearls are translucent and the suman is firm to the touch.

Step 9

Remove the suman from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1614.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2504.2

Total Fat 104.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 92.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 766.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 377.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 58.7g	0%
Total Sugars 90.9g
Protein 31.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 130.8mg	0%
Iron 21.5mg	0%
Potassium 1749.7mg	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: 36.4%

Protein: 4.9%

Carbs: 58.6%