The Philippines is an agricultural country. We have rice fields everywhere. Rice is our staple food and even most of our desserts are also made out of rice. One dessert that tops them all is called "Antala"
Antala is so easy to cook. It is the same method as cooking your usual rice. First you wash the rice. Then put banana leaves in a big pan, then put the rice there. However instead of using water, coconut milk is used instead.
You have to add a dash of salt. Wait for it to boil ang when the rice begins to soften, you can mix it so as not to burn the ones under.
Place a few banana leaves on top of the cooked rice. In a few minutes you can turn off the stove and let it cool down. It will become very sticky and that is the kind of consistency that we are aiming.
Transfer it in a big plate and place muscovado sugar or just any ordinary white sugar beside it so you can dip it there before eating. Reminder, this is a very heavy dessert. One cup is like eating a cup of rice so for those weight watchers, just get a few spoonfulls and less sugar because carbs & sweets will definitely make you heavier.
'Antala' can also mean 'ang tala' which means "the star". But not all stars can be found in the heavens because some are just waiting for you in the kitchen !
Enjoy Antala,the star rice dessert!