Pichi-Pichi Balls – Colorful Chewy Cassava Treats on a Stick

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What is Pichi-Pichi?

Pichi-Pichi is a classic Filipino kakanin made from grated cassava, sugar, and water, steamed until soft, chewy, and slightly translucent. This version, known as Pichi-Pichi Balls, turns the traditional dessert into fun bite-sized pieces skewered on sticks. Often flavored and colored with pandan, orange, strawberry, or ube, it’s a popular choice for parties and gatherings, lalo na kapag may mga bata.

Why Masarap?

Masarap ang Pichi-Pichi Balls dahil chewy at jelly-like ang texture, with just the right level of sweetness. The added flavors give each bite a light aroma, while the grated coconut coating adds freshness and richness. Hindi siya mabigat kainin, kaya madaling ubusin kahit ilang piraso. Colorful, playful, at very nostalgic—perfect pang-handaan.

Best Enjoyed For

Pichi-Pichi Balls are best enjoyed for merienda, party snacks, kids’ celebrations, or as a light dessert after meals. They’re especially refreshing when served chilled.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh grated cassava or thawed frozen cassava
• 1¾ cups white sugar
• 2 cups water
• ½ teaspoon pandan extract + 2 drops green food coloring
• ½ teaspoon orange extract + 2 drops orange food coloring
• ½ teaspoon strawberry extract + 1 drop red food coloring
  (alternatives: lemon for yellow, ube for purple)
• 20 bamboo skewers
• 2 cups fresh grated coconut

How to Cook Pichi-Pichi Balls

Prepare the Cassava

1. If using fresh cassava, wash thoroughly and peel off the outer skin.
2. Grate finely and remove the tough center fibers.
3. Place the grated cassava in a clean cloth and squeeze out excess liquid.
4. If using frozen cassava, thaw completely and drain before using.

Make the Mixture

5. In a bowl, combine cassava, sugar, and water. Mix until smooth.
6. Divide the mixture into three equal portions.
7. Add different flavor extracts and food coloring to each portion, then mix well.
   If a grater isn’t available, the cassava mixture may be blended briefly for a smoother texture.

Steam

8. Pour the mixtures into small molds or shallow pans.
9. Place in a preheated steamer and steam over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, or until firm and translucent.
10. Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours for better firmness.

Shape and Assemble

11. Scoop or cut the pichi-pichi into small balls.
12. Skewer 4–5 balls per stick, alternating flavors for color.
13. Roll each skewer generously in freshly grated coconut before serving.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Pichi-Pichi Balls

Making Pichi-Pichi Balls is simple, but a few small details can make a big difference in texture, appearance, and overall sarap.

• Squeeze the cassava properly
  Removing excess liquid from grated cassava is important. Too much moisture can result in pichi-pichi that’s too soft and not translucent enough after steaming.
• Steam with steady heat
  Use medium heat and make sure the steamer lid fits tightly. Consistent steam helps the mixture set evenly and achieve that signature jelly-like look.
• Chill before shaping
  Refrigerating the steamed pichi-pichi for a few hours makes it firmer and easier to scoop into clean, round balls. This also helps the flavors settle.
• Alternate colors for presentation
  When skewering, alternate different flavors and colors. This simple step makes the dessert more visually appealing—perfect for parties and kids’ events.
• Use fresh coconut for best flavor
  Freshly grated coconut adds aroma and a light creaminess that balances the sweetness of the cassava. If possible, avoid pre-packed coconut for this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Pichi-Pichi Balls are best served chilled or at room temperature. For a fun Filipino kakanin spread, they pair well with chewy treats like Kutsinta and soft rice cakes such as Puto. They also complement richer desserts like Cassava Cake, especially when serving a variety of sweets at parties.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated and consume within 2–3 days.
• Re-roll in fresh coconut before serving if needed.
• Avoid freezing, as it may affect texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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