How to Make Pandan Paste (5 Steps)

Though not yet typical in the United States, the distinctively bright-green pandan is a very common ingredient in Southeast Asia. It is most typically used in cakes and desserts, but the leaves are also used to wrap savory dishes. Pandan is sold fresh at the market, or grown in home gardens. It is also available dried, as an extract, or in a concentrated paste. Fresh pandan paste is easy to make, has a good flavor, and keeps fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

Things You'll Need

  • Fresh pandan leaves
  • Kitchen scissors
  • Blender
  • Water

Instructions

  1. Cut pandan leaves into small pieces with your kitchen scissors.

  2. Place cut pandan leaves into the blender.

  3. Add just enough water to almost cover the leaves. It's better to start with too little water, you can always add more as needed.

  4. Blend water and pandan leaves, adding more water as necessary.

  5. Refrigerate paste for up to two weeks, and use as needed.