Pandan are the sword shaped leaves of the pandan tree. They have a pleasant grassy, floral aroma and are used primarily to wrap foods for cooking in southern Asia. The leaves are often available in Asian markets and must be pounded before use to release their flavour. They are also used to lend a delicate fragrance to rice dishes.

Pandan, also known as screwpine, is a tropical herb treasured across Southeast Asian kitchens for its unique aroma and culinary versatility. With its long, blade-like green leaves and sweet, grassy fragrance, pandan lends an unmistakable flavour that’s both soothing and exotic, often likened to vanilla with a touch of freshly cut grass.

In many Asian countries, especially Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, pandan leaves are commonly used in both sweet and savoury dishes. When tied into a knot or wrapped around ingredients, the leaves release a gentle aroma during cooking, subtly infusing rice, curries, and desserts with their signature scent. Pandan rice, for instance, is a fragrant staple served with rich coconut curries or grilled meats, while pandan-wrapped chicken is a celebrated street food favourite, the herb acting as both seasoning and packaging.

In sweet preparations, pandan truly shines. The leaves are blended with water to create a vibrant green juice that flavours and colours a variety of desserts. From pandan chiffon cakes and jellies to sticky rice and sweet coconut milk puddings, its fragrant notes offer a delightful depth of flavour. One particularly famous treat is the pandan kaya, a rich coconut and egg jam spread often enjoyed on toast in Singapore and Malaysia.

Beyond the kitchen, pandan is also valued for its health benefits. It is traditionally used as a natural remedy for headaches, arthritis, and high blood pressure. Its soothing scent is even said to repel insects, making it a household staple in some cultures.

Today, pandan essence and extracts are widely available, making this tropical gem more accessible to global home cooks. Whether used fresh, dried, or bottled, pandan offers a captivating way to explore Southeast Asian cuisine and bring a touch of the tropics to everyday dishes.