What is khanom nap?

Khanom nap is a traditional Lao dessert made from sticky rice flour, filled with sweetened coconut shreds, and wrapped in fresh banana leaves. The sticky rice has a soft, chewy texture similar to mochi, while the coconut filling is typically sweetened with palm sugar, though caramelized sugar can also be used. This dessert is commonly served at Lao celebrations, cultural events, and holidays. Each triangular piece is crafted with care, making it a labor-intensive treat, almost like creating edible art.

Ingredients for Khanom Nap

FILLING

• coconut shred: fresh coconut leaves are the best but you can also use the frozen kind

• brown sugar and white sugar: a combination of sugars helps layer the types of sweetness in this dessert

• salt: a little salt brings out the sweetness and balances the flavors

DOUGH

• glutinous sticky rice flour: most of the dough is made with this rice and gives it a bouncy texture

• jasmine rice flour: a little jasmine rice flour so the dough is not too sticky

• white sugar: slightly sweetened dough

• coconut milk: adds creaminess to the dessert

• water

Other

• Banana leaves: the aroma goes into the dessert

• Coconut oil spray: prevents the dessert from not sticking

Serving Suggestions

After steaming, let the khanom nap cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Store any extras in the fridge, and reheat them in the microwave for 1 minute. They can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

Video Tutorial

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