MANILA, Philippines — Kutsinta is a traditional steamed rice cake made with rice flour, brown sugar and lye. Often a partner to Puto, it is usually served with freshly grated coconut.

Despite the lower demand, the price of puto with cheese remains at P130 per kilo, while plain puto and kutsinta cost P110 per kilo. Meanwhile, Raquel de Vera-Romero, a food stall owner, ensures her ...