What Are Pandan Leaves?

Jul 25, 2025 sushmita kumari

Meet Pandan:

Pandan leaves come from the Pandanus amaryllifolius plant. Long, blade-like, and bright green, they’re known for their unique aroma. Source: Wikipedia commons

A Natural Flavour Booster:

Pandan has a sweet, floral, and vanilla-like scent. It’s often used to flavour rice, curries, desserts, and drinks. Source: Wikipedia commons

Culinary Star of Asia:

Used widely in Thai, Malaysian, Filipino, Indonesian, and Indian coastal cuisines—both for flavour and aroma. Source: Wikipedia commons

Pandan Rice and More:

Knotted pandan leaves are boiled with rice for extra fragrance. Also used in cakes, jellies, and sweets. Source: Wikipedia commons

Pandan Juice and Extract:

Fresh leaves are blended into juice or paste and used as a natural green colouring and flavouring for desserts. Source: Wikipedia commons

Health Benefits:

Traditionally used to treat: Headaches, fever, joint pain and skin issues. Also rich in antioxidants. Source: pexels

Aromatherapy:

Pandan is used in natural air fresheners and insect repellents due to its refreshing scent Source: pexels

Where to Find It:

Buy fresh or frozen leaves at Asian grocery stores. Pandan extract and essence are also widely available. Source: pexels

8 Ancient Indian Dishes That Were Lost and Now Rediscovered 8 Ancient Indian Dishes That Were Lost and Now Rediscovered