Puto Calasiao is a type of Filipino soft steamed rice cake; that is well known all over the Philippines for its melt-in-the-mouth feeling. It is a type of "puto" (steamed rice cake) shaped in small bite-sized portions.
Etymology.
The name is derived from Tagalog "puto" (steamed rice cake) and "Calasiao" the place of its origin.
Description.
"Puto Calasiao" is a type of "puto" (steamed rice cake) that are shaped in small bite-sized portions that is made out from a semi-glutinous rice that is soaked in water, ground and fermented in earthen jars for three days or more, with just enough sugar to taste, and steamed. It can be topped with cheese or drizzled with chocolate syrup for variation.
The "Puto Calasiao" tradition started dates back from about 1900s, and it originated from the place of Calasiao from the province of Pangasinan where its namesake comes from. It is the town's "white gold" and iconic food. It is known for its sweet, fluffy, chewy, cup-shaped, and small bite-sized soft rice cakes.
Festival.
"Puto Calasiao" Festival celebrates annually every early December at the end of the year in Calasiao, Pangasinan, in the Philippines. It is the town's pride and cultural heritage. During its festivals, the local villagers and people outside the region come in for the culinary competition for varieties of "Puto Calasiao" and to celebrate the feast. The festival promotes unity in its community.