Kutsinta (No Lye Water)
Wet Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar
3 cups lukewarm water (divided)
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp annatto powder
Dry Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup tapioca starch/flour
½ cup glutinous rice flour
Prepare the tools
Lightly grease the molds with vegetable oil. Place in the steamer racks and set aside. TIGHTLY wrap the steamer lid with a damp kitchen towel. Next, prepare the steamer by adding water into the base. Heat until it starts boiling. Meanwhile, make the batter.
Make the batter
Combine 2 1/2 cup water, brown sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Stir until sugar and salt is completely dissolved.
In a small bowl, combine annatto powder and 1/2 cup water. Stir until completely dissolved. Pour onto the brown sugar mixture. Stir again to combine.
Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk until lump-free. Pour the liquid ingredients and stir until combined. Strain the batter through a fine-mesh sieve and into a large measuring cup with a pouring spout.
Steam and Serve
Gently stir the batter then fill each mold 3/4 full (see video). Place the racks in the steamer and cover with the lid.
Adjust the heat to the lowest heat so the water will gently simmer instead of boiling. Steam for 25 minutes until the top is set.
Remove from the steamer and let it cool completely. Remove from the molds using a spatula. Serve with grated coconut or dulce de leche. Enjoy!