Pandanus leaves also know as “rampe” and screwpine leaves, are long, slender leaves with a fragrant aroma. They are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Indonesian, Malaysian, Thai, and Filipino dishes.

These leaves impart a distinct sweet, floral flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. They are often used to flavor rice, cakes, custards, and other desserts. Additionally, they can be used to wrap food, imparting a subtle flavor and aroma.

You can often find fresh pandan leaves in Asian grocery stores. They can also be purchased dried or as a paste or extract.

Pandanus leaves, come from the Pandanus plant. It’s a tropical plant with long, sword-shaped leaves that have a distinctive fragrance. These leaves are harvested from the plant and can be used fresh or dried.

While Pandanus leaves are primarily used for their flavor and aroma, they do offer some nutritional benefits. They are a good source of:

  • Fiber: Pandanus leaves are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: They contain vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
  • Antioxidants: Pandanus leaves possess antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

However, the primary benefit of Pandanus leaves lies in their unique flavor and aroma, rather than their significant nutritional content.

Gemini AI, a digital mind and language model, offered this explanation.