Es cendol - green jelly drink

es_cendol_-_green_jelly_drink

Indonesia is rich in culture and diversity, and one of the most essential components of its culture is the food. The country is known for its vast variety of culinary offerings, reflecting the diverse influences from different regions. One such popular Indonesian beverage is the Es cendol, otherwise known as the green jelly drink. It is a refreshing and delightful drink that has become a staple in the Indonesian food culture.

Es cendol is a sweet, creamy and refreshing dessert drink, which is typically made with coconut milk, pandan-flavoured green jelly noodles and palm sugar syrup. This drink is especially popular as a cooling drink during hot weather and a sweet treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It is a drink that you will find being sold in almost every street corner of the country, from the bustling cities to the rural areas.

The drink’s green, jelly-like noodles are what makes it different from other drinks. The green Noodles are made by combining Pandan leaves juice with rice flour, mixed with green food colouring, and boiled until it forms a jelly-like consistency. The noodle-like pieces of jelly are then mixed with ice, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup in a tall glass, then topped off with crushed ice cubes.

Es cendol is not only delicious, but the ingredients used to make the drink are also brimming with health benefits. Coconut milk, the primary ingredient in this drink, is rich in vitamins and minerals, and is said to help lower cholesterol levels. It is also a great source of healthy fats that can aid in weight loss. Pandan leaves, which are used for flavouring the jelly-like noodles, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and can also help with digestion.

The palm sugar syrup used in the drink is a healthier alternative to regular white sugar. It is an unrefined sugar processed from palm tree sap, rich in natural vitamins and minerals, and has a lower glycemic index than white sugar. The syrup adds a unique sweetness to the drink, making it taste delicious.

Es cendol has variations, depending on the region it is made in. In Java, for instance, the drink is typically topped with durian flesh and served with jackfruit slices. In Sumatra, the recipe may include mung bean paste or grated coconut. In Bali, it is commonly served with sliced fruit or ice cream.

The process of making Es Cendol is relatively easy, and it is something that you can make in the comfort of your home. With its striking green colour, creamy texture and delicious taste, it is a perfect drink for any occasion. It is also an excellent way of introducing Indonesian cuisine to people who are new to it.

In conclusion, Es cendol is a delicious, refreshing and healthy drink that is steeped in Indonesian culture. Its unique ingredients, green jelly-like noodles, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup result in a flavor that is unmatched, making it an essential part of Indonesians' everyday life. Whether you are looking for a sweet refreshment or a unique treat to try, Es cendol is an excellent choice that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rice flour
  • ¼ cup tapioca flour
  • 1 teaspoon pandan extract
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup shaved ice
  • ½ cup palm sugar syrup
  • 1 cup cooked red beans

Instructions:

  1. Combine rice flour, tapioca flour, pandan extract, and sugar in a mixing bowl.

  2. Gradually add water and coconut milk to the mixture, stir until the batter is smooth.

  3. Pour the batter into a pan and steam for about 20-30 minutes or until the batter is cooked and becomes a bit firm.

  4. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool.

  5. Once it is cool, cut the pandan jelly into tiny pieces and put them into a bowl.

  6. Add shaved ice, palm sugar syrup, and cooked red beans into the serving glasses.

  7. Put a tablespoon of pandan jelly into the glass and pour the sweet coconut milk over it.

  8. Serve chilled and enjoy!