Bibingka is a traditional Filipino rice cake that is commonly eaten during the Christmas season. It is a popular dessert that is enjoyed by many Filipinos, both young and old. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bibingka, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Bibingka is a type of rice cake that is made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar. It is traditionally cooked in a clay pot lined with banana leaves and topped with salted duck eggs, grated cheese, and coconut shreds. The cake is then baked in an oven or over hot coals until it is golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
Origin
The origin of bibingka can be traced back to pre-colonial times when rice was a staple food in the Philippines. Rice cakes were a common food item during festivals and special occasions. The Spanish colonizers introduced baking techniques and ingredients such as eggs, cheese, and milk, which were incorporated into the traditional rice cake recipe.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to Merriam-Webster, bibingka is defined as “a Philippine cake made of rice flour and coconut milk”. The Oxford English Dictionary describes bibingka as “a coconut-flavored rice cake that is a popular dessert in the Philippines”.
Associations
Bibingka is commonly associated with Christmas in the Philippines, where it is sold in food stalls and bakeries during the holiday season. It is also a popular street food and can be found in markets and fairs throughout the year.
Synonyms
Other synonyms for bibingka include kakanin, puto, and suman.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for bibingka as it is a specific type of rice cake.
The same root words
Bibingka does not have any root words as it is a Filipino word.
Example Sentences
- I love eating bibingka during Christmas time.
- The bibingka at this bakery is the best I’ve ever had.
- My grandmother used to make bibingka from scratch using a clay pot.
- I prefer bibingka with salted duck eggs on top.
- The aroma of freshly baked bibingka is irresistible.