Chek Ktis Recipe – Traditional Cambodian Bananas in Coconut Milk
Chek Ktis (ចេកខ្ទិះ) is a classic Cambodian dessert made by gently simmering ripe bananas in rich coconut milk sweetened with palm sugar. Creamy, comforting, and lightly fragrant, this traditional Khmer sweet is a staple in Cambodian households and is commonly enjoyed as a warm dessert or afternoon treat.
Simple in preparation yet deeply satisfying, Chek Ktis reflects the Cambodian love for coconut-based sweets that highlight natural fruit flavors rather than overpowering them.
What Is Chek Ktis?
Chek Ktis is a Cambodian coconut milk dessert featuring bananas cooked until tender in a sweetened coconut sauce. The bananas soften and absorb the coconut milk, creating a silky texture and mellow sweetness.
This dessert is widely prepared during family gatherings, religious ceremonies, and everyday meals, especially when ripe bananas are abundant.
Cultural Significance of Chek Ktis in Cambodia
Bananas and coconut milk are foundational ingredients in Cambodian desserts. Chek Ktis is especially popular in rural areas, where bananas grow easily and coconut milk is freshly extracted.
The dish is often associated with:
- Home-style desserts
- Temple offerings
- Comfort food enjoyed across generations
Chek Ktis is valued for its simplicity and its ability to stretch basic ingredients into a nourishing sweet.
Choosing the Right Bananas
Traditional Chek Ktis uses small, ripe Cambodian bananas that are naturally sweet and fragrant. If unavailable, other ripe bananas with firm flesh can be used.
The bananas should be ripe but not mushy to maintain their shape during simmering.
Key Ingredients in Chek Ktis
- Ripe bananas
- Coconut milk
- Palm sugar
- Salt
- Pandan leaves (optional)
- Water
Optional garnishes include sesame seeds or coconut cream.
Flavor and Texture Profile
Chek Ktis is creamy, gently sweet, and aromatic, with tender bananas coated in a rich coconut sauce. A small pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and brings balance to the dish.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chek Ktis
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 6–8 ripe bananas, peeled and halved
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 3–4 tbsp palm sugar, chopped
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 pandan leaf, tied (optional)
- ½ cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Base
In a pot, combine coconut milk, water, palm sugar, salt, and pandan leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 2: Add the Bananas
Add bananas to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Cook over low heat for 10–15 minutes until bananas are tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Adjust Sweetness
Taste and adjust sugar or salt if needed.
Step 5: Serve
Remove pandan leaf and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Chek Ktis
- Use ripe but firm bananas
- Avoid boiling vigorously to prevent curdling
- Stir gently to keep bananas intact
- Add salt sparingly to enhance flavor
Variations of Chek Ktis
- Chek Ktis with tapioca pearls – thicker texture
- Chek Ktis with sweet potato – heartier version
- Chek Ktis with coconut cream topping – richer finish
Why Chek Ktis Remains a Khmer Favorite
Chek Ktis embodies the warmth and simplicity of Cambodian desserts. It relies on minimal ingredients, gentle cooking, and natural sweetness, making it a comforting dish that continues to be passed down through generations.
Learning to make Chek Ktis offers insight into traditional Khmer sweets and the importance of coconut milk in Cambodian culinary heritage.
