Bitso-bitso: Ilonggo Twisted Rice Doughnuts in Muscovado
Bitso-bitso (also bichu-bichu or bitsu-bitsu) is an Ilonggo merienda of glutinous rice dough twisted into ropes, deep-fried and tossed in muscovado syrup until the sugar dries into a crisp, crackly shell. Crisp outside, chewy inside.
About Bitso-bitso
Ilonggos describe it as a cross between palitaw and banana cue: a chewy rice dough like palitaw, finished with a caramelized sugar coat like banana cue. In towns around Iloilo such as Santa Barbara it is still sold by vendors walking the streets in the afternoon, a few pesos a piece. Recipes vary by cook, but the method is always the same: fry, then cook in sugar until it re-crystallizes on the dough.
The name is also used for pilipit, a twisted wheat-flour doughnut. The Ilonggo version is made with glutinous rice flour, which gives it its chew.
Ingredient notes
- Glutinous rice flour: gives the chewy center.
- Baking powder: a little makes the inside lighter. Optional.
- Muscovado sugar: cooks into the crisp, dark coating.
- Coconut cream: some cooks add a little to the syrup for richness.
Tips for the best Bitso-bitso
- Knead until smooth. The dough should feel like soft clay and not crack when twisted.
- Fry at medium heat. Too hot and the outside browns before the center cooks.
- Keep tossing in the syrup. Stop when the sugar turns dry and sandy on the dough.
What to serve with Bitso-bitso
Serve warm or at room temperature with coffee.
Variations and substitutions
- With sesame: add toasted sesame seeds to the sugar coating.
- Ube bitso-bitso: add a little ube extract to the dough.
- Rings: shape into rings instead of twists.
Storing and reheating
Best the day it is made. Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days; the coating softens in humid weather.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my bitso-bitso burst in the oil?
The dough was too dry or had cracks. Knead in a little more water.
Why is the coating sticky instead of crisp?
The syrup was not cooked long enough. Keep tossing over the heat until the sugar dries on the dough.
More Filipino recipes you might like
Turon, Puto and Kalamay Hati.
