How to Make Putu Piring (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Putu Piring is a beloved Singaporean snack, often spotted in vibrant hawker centres and kopitiams, enjoyed by locals across generations. This steamed rice cake with a sweet gula melaka (palm sugar) filling and a topping of grated coconut captures the multi-ethnic spirit of Singapore cuisine. Its origins trace back to the Malay community, but today, Putu Piring is considered a staple in Singapore’s global food scene, celebrated for its simple ingredients and nostalgic taste. Unlike deep-fried snacks, Putu Piring offers a lighter alternative that aligns perfectly with a health-conscious lifestyle. The use of rice flour, natural palm sugar, and fresh grated coconut creates a delicate balance of sweetness and texture, making it a delightful treat for vegetarians. Singapore’s hawker culture has also brought modern twists, such as pandan-infused versions and inventive shapes, reflecting the fusion influences of the city-state. Its popularity during tea-time, breakfast, or as a grab-and-go snack underscores its versatility and enduring appeal in Singaporean food heritage.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the grated coconut by steaming it with a pinch of salt for ...
Prepare the grated coconut by steaming it with a pinch of salt for 3 minutes. Set aside.
Step 2 · Mix rice flour with water and a pinch of salt to form a crumbly
Mix rice flour with water and a pinch of salt to form a crumbly, moist texture. Sieve to remove lumps.
Step 3 · Cut banana leaves into squares
Cut banana leaves into squares, wipe clean, and place in each steamer mold to prevent sticking.
Step 4 · Fill each mold with a layer of rice flour mixture
Fill each mold with a layer of rice flour mixture, press gently. Add 1 tablespoon gula melaka in the center.
Step 5 · Cover gula melaka with another layer of rice flour mixture
Cover gula melaka with another layer of rice flour mixture, shape into a dome, and place pandan leaf on top (if using).
Step 6 · Steam Putu Piring over high heat for 7-10 minutes until cakes are c...
Steam Putu Piring over high heat for 7-10 minutes until cakes are cooked through and slightly translucent.
Step 7 · Remove from steamer
Remove from steamer, transfer to a plate, and top each cake generously with steamed grated coconut.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Putu Piring recipe is steamed, not fried, keeping calories lower and nutrients intact. It uses minimally processed ingredients, making it a smart choice for weight management and digestive health. The balance of complex carbohydrates and healthy fats supports sustained energy, while the absence of dairy and processed sugars ensures suitability for vegetarian and vegan diets. Its portion-controlled nature also makes it a guilt-free snack for calorie-conscious eaters.
A note on tradition
Putu Piring is a classic Malay snack with deep roots in Singapore’s hawker culture, especially in areas like Geylang Serai and Little India. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or as a tea-time treat, it reflects the multicultural tapestry of Singapore’s food scene. The snack is often prepared fresh at hawker stalls, drawing queues from locals and tourists alike, and is a symbol of Singapore’s culinary fusion and street food vibrancy.