Thai Banana Leaf Sticky Rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice
   Drain the soaked glutinous rice thoroughly. In a pot, mix the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat until sugar dissolves, then remove from heat. Add the drained rice and stir well. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the coconut milk mixture.
2. Prepare filling mixture
   In a small bowl, combine the sliced bananas, cooked black beans, 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds, and palm sugar. Mix gently and set aside.
3. Assemble the packets
   Lay two banana leaf squares in a cross pattern. Place about 3 tablespoons of the coconut rice mixture in the center. Make a small indentation in the rice and add 1-2 tablespoons of the banana-bean filling. Cover with another 2 tablespoons of rice, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.
4. Wrap and tie
   Fold the banana leaves over the rice to create a neat rectangular package. Secure with kitchen string or strips of banana leaf. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling mixture.
5. Steam the packets
   Arrange the wrapped rice packets in a steamer basket, ensuring they don't overlap too much. Steam over medium heat for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has a sticky, soft texture.
6. Cool and serve
   Remove the packets from the steamer and let them cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining toasted sesame seeds when serving. The rice can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.