Recipe: Sweet Malaysian Banana Stew With Coconut Milk
30 mins
Cooking Time
Easy
Difficulty
7
Ingredients
Vegan
Diet
Pengat Pisang is a beloved Malaysian dessert made by gently simmering ripe bananas in coconut milk and palm sugar until soft, fragrant, and naturally sweet. Often described as a banana-coconut stew, this dish is popular across Malaysia and parts of Southeast Asia, especially as a comforting home-style dessert served warm or at room temperature. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, pengat pisang is proof that traditional desserts don’t need refined sugar or elaborate techniques to feel indulgent. It’s commonly enjoyed after meals, during festive occasions, or as a soothing evening sweet paired with tea. Soft bananas, silky coconut milk, and warm jaggery notes come together to create a dessert that feels both nostalgic and timeless.
In a saucepan, add palm sugar and water. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves completely, forming a light syrup. Strain if needed to remove impurities.
Description - Step 2
Add Bananas And Pandan
Add sliced bananas and the knotted pandan leaf to the syrup. Simmer on low heat until the bananas begin to soften.
Description - Step 3
Add Coconut Milk
Pour in thin coconut milk and cook gently. Once the bananas are tender, add thick coconut milk and a pinch of salt. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the bananas.
Description - Step 4
Simmer Gently
Let the mixture simmer on low heat until slightly thickened and glossy. Do not boil once thick coconut milk is added.
Description - Step 5
Rest And Serve
Turn off the heat and allow the pengat pisang to rest for a few minutes before serving.