Binagol facts for kids
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| Alternative names | Binangol |
|---|---|
| Course | Dessert |
| Place of origin | Philippines |
| Region or state | Leyte, Samar |
| Main ingredients | giant taro, condensed milk, coconut milk, sugar, egg |
Binagol is a delicious and unique sweet treat from the Philippines. It is a type of dessert that is steamed and known for its special packaging. This yummy delicacy is made by the Waray people, who live in the eastern part of the Philippines.
Binagol gets its name from the Visayan language word bagol, which means "coconut shell". This is because it is traditionally served inside half of a coconut shell. The shell is then wrapped in banana leaves and tied with twine, making it a perfect gift or snack to take on the go.
Contents
Discover What Binagol Is
Binagol is a sweet and sticky dessert. It has a unique texture that is soft and chewy. People often enjoy it as a snack or after a meal. It is a popular treat in the regions where it is made.
Main Ingredients of Binagol
The main ingredient in Binagol is a type of root vegetable called giant taro. This plant has large underground stems called corms. In the Philippines, giant taro is known as talyan or talian. Sometimes, regular taro (called gabi in Tagalog) is also used.
Other important ingredients include:
- Sweet condensed milk
- Granulated sugar
- Rich coconut milk
- Egg yolks
These ingredients are mixed together to create the sweet and creamy flavor of Binagol.
How Binagol Is Prepared
Making Binagol involves several steps. First, the taro corms are cooked until they are soft. Then, they are mashed into a smooth paste. This paste is mixed with the other ingredients like condensed milk, sugar, coconut milk, and egg yolks.
Once the mixture is ready, it is carefully placed into half of a coconut shell. The shell acts as a natural container. Finally, the filled coconut shells are wrapped in fresh banana leaves and steamed until the Binagol is fully cooked and firm. This steaming process gives Binagol its distinct texture.
Where Binagol Comes From
Binagol is a traditional food of the Waray people. They live in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. This region includes the islands of Leyte and Samar. Binagol is a well-loved part of their local food culture.
A Special Filipino Delicacy
Binagol is a type of nilupak. Nilupak refers to a group of Filipino dishes made from mashed starchy ingredients. These can include root crops like taro or cassava. They are often mixed with coconut and sugar. Binagol stands out because of its unique packaging in a coconut shell.
This sweet treat is not just food; it is also a symbol of Filipino tradition and hospitality. When you see Binagol, you know you are getting a taste of authentic Filipino culture. It shows how people use natural resources, like coconut shells and banana leaves, to create something special.
