Prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant hues and delicate flavors of Pumpkin Bua Loy, a captivating Thai dessert. These translucent, jewel-like pumpkin dumplings, swimming in a sweet coconut milk broth, offer a delightful textural contrast and a harmonious blend of sweet and subtly spiced notes. Imagine the soft, chewy texture of the pumpkin filling yielding to the creamy richness of the coconut milk – a true sensory delight. This recipe offers a unique twist on a classic, showcasing the versatility of pumpkin in a surprisingly elegant way.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparations; this recipe guides you through making Pumpkin Bua Loy with ease. We'll unravel the secrets to achieving that signature glassy finish and share expert tips for perfectly cooked dumplings. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create a stunning dessert that will impress? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Spoon
- Toothpicks
- Pot
- Pan
- Container
Ingredients
- Golden pumpkin
- Glutinous rice flour
- Tapioca flour
- Water
- Cornstarch
- Pumpkin seeds
- Coconut milk
- White sugar
- Salt
- Young coconut meat
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pumpkin Dough
- Steam the pumpkin until cooked (about 20 minutes).
- Mash the cooked pumpkin using a spoon.
- Mix the mashed pumpkin with glutinous rice flour and tapioca flour.
- Gradually add boiling water to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Adjust with more flour or cornstarch as needed for the right consistency.




- Roll the dough into small balls.

Step 2. Shape and Cook the Pumpkin Bua Loy
- Flatten each ball and use toothpicks to create grooves resembling a pumpkin.
- Insert a pumpkin seed into the center of each pumpkin-shaped dumpling.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the pumpkin bua loy and cook until they float to the surface (this indicates they are cooked).
- Remove the cooked bua loy and immediately transfer them to cold water to prevent sticking.




Step 3. Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture
- In a separate pot or container, combine coconut milk, sugar, salt, and young coconut meat.

Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pumpkin bua loy to the coconut milk mixture. Stir gently over low heat until the sugar and salt dissolve.

Read more: Thai Mussel Pie Tee: Michelin-Starred Amuse-Bouche Recipe
Tips
- Using two types of flour (glutinous rice flour and tapioca flour) makes shaping the bua loy easier and creates a nice texture.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 70-85g
- Protein: 5-8g
FAQs
1. How do I achieve the glassy, translucent look of the pumpkin dumplings?
The key is using a high-quality tapioca starch (also called tapioca flour) and ensuring the dough is thin enough. Gently rolling the dumplings also helps achieve that glossy finish.
2. Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of fresh pumpkin?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to drain any excess liquid from the canned pumpkin before using it in the recipe to avoid a watery filling.
3. What can I do if my dumplings stick together while cooking?
Make sure to gently stir the dumplings in the boiling water to prevent sticking. Also, ensure your dumplings are not overcrowded in the pot.
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making exquisite Pumpkin Bua Loy. Enjoy the delightful taste and impressive presentation of these beautiful dumplings, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Impress your loved ones with this unique and delicious Thai dessert.