Description
A creamy, comforting Filipino dessert made with coconut milk, chewy glutinous rice balls (bilo-bilo), tender sweet potatoes, and bananas. Ginataang Bilo Bilo is a warm, pudding-like treat that beautifully blends textures and flavors for a truly heartwarming experience.
Ingredients
2 cups coconut milk (full-fat for a richer texture)
1 cup water
1 cup glutinous rice balls (bilo-bilo), homemade or store-bought
1/2 cup tapioca pearls (or small round rice)
2 medium sweetened bananas (ripe saba or plantains), sliced
1 medium sweet potato or yam, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the glutinous rice balls by combining glutinous rice flour with water in a mixing bowl until a smooth dough forms. Roll into small 1-inch balls and set aside.
- Peel and chop the sweet potato into bite-sized pieces. Boil or steam until tender, about 10–15 minutes, then set aside.
- In a large pot, combine the coconut milk and water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add the sweet potatoes, glutinous rice balls, and tapioca pearls to the simmering coconut mixture.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice balls float to the surface.
- Taste and add sugar if desired, then simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve warm in bowls with a thick, creamy consistency.
Notes
Add jackfruit strips or purple yam for extra flavor and color.
For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of water and simmer longer.
Use coconut cream instead of milk for a richer, more indulgent version.
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of water or coconut milk.
This dessert can also be served chilled for a refreshing twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
