Acaçá

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice several times in clear water, then soak it for 4 hours in cold water. Drain well.
2. Blend the drained rice with the 500 ml of water until you have a fine, smooth, slightly grainy paste.
3. If using fresh coconut, grate it finely and add it to the paste with the salt and palm oil, then mix well.
4. Warm the banana leaves for a few seconds over a flame or in boiling water to soften them, then wipe them dry.
5. Place about 4 tablespoons of paste in the centre of each leaf, fold the edges over to make a parcel and tie it with kitchen string.
6. Put the parcels in a steamer or a pan with a little water at the bottom, cover and steam for 50 to 60 minutes, until the paste is firm to the touch.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before opening the parcels to avoid burning yourself.
8. Serve warm or lukewarm, with vatapá or caruru.