puso

Puso, or hanging rice, is a traditional Filipino food consisting of glutinous rice packed into a small pouch formed from palm or coconut leaves, tied with a leaf fiber, and steamed until cooked. The leaf wrapping creates a portable, edible container; the bundles are often displayed or sold by hanging them from sticks or racks.

Preparation typically involves washing and soaking the glutinous rice, then cooking it until tender. While still warm, the rice is pressed into a leaf pouch and shaped into a teardrop or heart-like form. The opening is sealed with a tied strip of leaf, and the bundle is steamed to finish cooking. The result is compact, finger-friendly rice that can be eaten without utensils, with the leaf imparting aroma.

Usage and cultural context: Puso is commonly sold as street food in Cebu and other Visayan regions, as well as in Mindanao. It is frequently enjoyed with grilled dishes such as lechon, barbecue, or fish, and is popular at markets, fairs, and fiestas. The edible leaf wrapper makes it a convenient, portable accompaniment for meals on the go and for sharing during communal gatherings.

Variations and terminology: In some areas it is prepared using banana leaves and is sometimes described as puso ng saging. The term puso means heart in Filipino, reflecting the pouch-like shape. While the core idea remains the same, individual vendors and regions may differ in leaf type, size, and the exact folding method.