Kluay Buat Chi (Thai Bananas in Coconut Milk)

🧂 Ingredients

• 4 Ripe bananas(Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm, such as Nam Wa or Gros Michel. Avoid overripe, mushy bananas.)
• 400 ml Full-fat coconut milk(Using full-fat coconut milk will yield a richer, creamier dessert.)
• 4 tbsp Granulated sugar(Adjust to your preferred sweetness. Palm sugar can be used for a more traditional flavor.)
• 1/4 tsp Salt(Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.)
• 2 Pandan leaves(Tie into a knot to release more flavor. If unavailable, a tiny splash of vanilla extract can be used as a substitute, though the aroma will differ.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and slice them into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick rounds. Set aside.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   Infuse the coconut milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, granulated sugar, and knotted pandan leaves. Place over medium-low heat.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
3. 3

   Add the bananas: Carefully add the sliced bananas to the simmering coconut milk. Reduce the heat to low.

   ⏱️ 5-7 minutes
4. 4

   Finish and serve: Remove the pandan leaves from the saucepan. Stir in the salt. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary. Ladle the warm bananas and coconut milk into individual serving bowls. Serve immediately.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture. Overripe bananas will disintegrate during cooking.
• ✓Do not boil the coconut milk vigorously, as it can cause it to separate. A gentle simmer is ideal.
• ✓The salt is essential for enhancing the sweetness and adding depth to the dessert.
• ✓Pandan leaves add a unique floral aroma. If you can't find them, a tiny drop of vanilla extract can be used, but the flavor profile will be different.
• ✓This dessert is best enjoyed fresh and warm.

🔄 Variations

• Add cooked small tapioca pearls along with the bananas for added texture.
• Substitute palm sugar for granulated sugar for a richer, more caramel-like flavor.
• Add a few slices of fresh ginger during the simmering stage for a subtle spicy note.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving