Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee)

Are you looking for a unique, portable, and delicious camping recipe that brings the flavors of Thailand to your outdoor adventures? Look no further than Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee). This traditional Thai street food is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for camping recipes. Grilled in banana leaves, it offers a smoky, sweet, and slightly savory flavor that’s loved by locals and tourists alike. Its portability and minimal cooking requirements make it an ideal choice for outdoor cooking.

What is Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee)?

Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee) is a beloved Thai dessert or snack made from glutinous sticky rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt, all wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection. The dish has a unique texture—soft and chewy on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior from the grill. Its flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweet, smoky, and slightly savory notes, thanks to the caramelization of the coconut milk and sugar during grilling.

This dish is a staple in Thailand, often sold as Thai street food, and is enjoyed by people of all ages. The use of banana leaves not only adds a subtle earthy aroma but also makes it eco-friendly and easy to handle. Whether you’re a fan of sticky rice desserts or looking to try something new, Khao Jee is a must-try.

Why Khao Jee is Perfect for Camping

When it comes to camping food, Khao Jee stands out for its simplicity, portability, and deliciousness. Here’s why it’s an excellent choice for your next outdoor trip:

1. Portable and Mess-Free: Wrapped in banana leaves, Khao Jee is easy to carry and eat without the need for plates or utensils.
2. Minimal Cooking Tools: All you need is a campfire or portable grill to cook this dish.
3. Long-Lasting Freshness: The banana leaves help retain moisture, keeping the rice fresh for hours.
4. Energy-Boosting: The combination of sticky rice and coconut milk provides a satisfying and energy-rich snack, perfect for outdoor activities.

Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply enjoying a day outdoors, Khao Jee is a practical and tasty addition to your outdoor recipes.

Also see banana leaf campfire recipe: Thai Banana Leaf-Grilled Chicken

Ingredients for Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf

To make Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee), you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous sticky rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Banana leaves (cut into 8×8 inch squares, cleaned, and lightly toasted over a flame for flexibility)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or 1/4 cup black beans for added texture

These ingredients are readily available at most Asian grocery stores. If you’re planning a camping trip, prepare the rice mixture at home and pack it with the banana leaves for easy cooking at your campsite.

Necessary Cooking Tools

The beauty of Khao Jee lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A portable campfire grill
• Tongs or a spatula for flipping the packets
• A small pot or bowl for mixing the rice
• Aluminum foil (optional, for extra protection while grilling)

No fancy equipment is required, making this recipe a true camping-friendly dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee):

1. Soak the Rice: Rinse 2 cups of glutinous sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. Steam the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and steam it for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and tender.

3. Prepare the Coconut Mixture: In a small pot, heat 1 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.

4. Mix the Rice: Combine the steamed sticky rice with the coconut mixture. Stir gently to ensure the rice is evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

5. Prepare Banana Leaves: Lightly toast the banana leaves over a flame to make them pliable. Cut them into 8×8 inch squares.

6. Wrap the Rice: Place a portion of the rice mixture in the center of each banana leaf square. Fold the leaf to form a tight packet, securing the edges with toothpicks or small bamboo skewers.

7. Grill the Packets: Place the packets on a campfire grill or portable grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the banana leaves are slightly charred and the rice is heated through.

8. Serve: Let the packets cool slightly before unwrapping and enjoying.

Essential Note: Ensure the banana leaves are tightly wrapped to prevent the rice from spilling out during grilling.

Tips for Making the Perfect Khao Jee

Here are some expert tips to help you master this Khao Jee recipe:

• Soak the Rice Properly: Soaking the sticky rice ensures it cooks evenly and achieves the right texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the coconut mixture before adding it to the rice. Adjust the sugar to suit your preference.
• Prevent Burning: Keep the grill at medium heat and flip the packets frequently to avoid burning the banana leaves.
• Add Variations: Experiment with sesame seeds, black beans, or a drizzle of coconut cream for extra flavor.

With these tips, you’ll be able to make the perfect sticky rice every time.

Serving and Storing Khao Jee

Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee) can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with fresh fruit, a cup of Thai iced tea, or even as a side dish with grilled meats.

For camping trips, store the uncooked packets in a cool, dry place. Once grilled, Khao Jee can be kept wrapped in banana leaves for up to 24 hours, making it a convenient and delicious option for outdoor meals.

See my latest campfire recipe: Baked Sweet Potatoes with Miso Butter

FAQs about Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf

Final Words

Thai Grilled Sticky Rice in Banana Leaf (Khao Jee) is a must-try dish for anyone who loves Thai street food or is looking for easy camping food ideas. Its unique flavor, portability, and simplicity make it a perfect addition to your outdoor cooking repertoire.

I’m excited for you to try this Khao Jee recipe and experience the taste of Thailand on your next camping trip. Don’t forget to share your experiences and explore other camping-friendly recipes on my blog, OutdoorTrekz.com. Happy cooking and happy camping!

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