Nyonya Kuih: Colorful Malaysian Desserts
Ingredients:
- For the glutinous rice:
- 1 cup glutinous rice
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 pandan leaf
- For the filling:
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pandan extract (optional)
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, bring the water, salt, and pandan leaf to a boil. Add the soaked glutinous rice and stir to combine. Cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook the rice for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
- Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, combine the grated coconut, sugar, salt, and pandan extract (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the sugar has dissolved. Divide the mixture into separate bowls and add food coloring to each, if desired.
- Once the glutinous rice is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, using wet hands, form the rice into small balls. Flatten each ball and add a spoonful of the filling in the center. Fold the edges of the rice around the filling to enclose it and shape into a ball.
- Repeat this process with the remaining rice and filling, using different colors as desired. Serve the Nyonya Kuih warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- For a more authentic flavor, use freshly grated coconut instead of packaged coconut flakes.
- You can also add other fillings, such as red bean paste or mung bean paste, to the Nyonya Kuih for variety.
- To keep the Kuih from sticking to your hands, wet your hands with water before shaping the rice balls.
Nyonya Kuih are a staple in Malaysian cuisine, known for their bright colors and sweet, chewy texture. Made with glutinous rice and a variety of fillings, these bite-sized desserts are perfect for snacking or entertaining. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, colorful or plain, there is a Nyonya Kuih for everyone. So gather your ingredients and get ready to experience a taste of Malaysia in your own kitchen!
