Delicious Apam Balik Recipe: Secret Ingredients Revealed!
As someone who loves to explore new and exciting culinary creations, I am always on the lookout for unique and delicious dishes from around the world. And one recipe that has truly captured my taste buds is the Apam Balik, a traditional Asian pancake turnover that is nothing short of heavenly.
This delightful street food pancake is a speciality of Malaysian and Indonesian cuisine, known for its crispy and fluffy texture, filled with roasted peanuts, sugar, corn, bananas and more. Known by various names like Terang Bulan, Martabak Manis or Min Jiang Kueh in different parts of Asia, this peanut pancake turnover oozes with sweet creamed corn, sugar butter and other mouth-watering ingredients.
If you’re looking to make a special dish to impress your friends or family, look no further than this amazing recipe. It’s the perfect combination of crispy and fluffy textures, rich flavors, and mouthwatering ingredients. And what’s even better is that it can easily be made at home with everyday ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen.
So let’s dive into this incredible dish together and get started on the journey towards becoming an expert in Apam Balik making!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine a crispy, fluffy Asian pancake with a peanut filling oozing out from between the folds. Introducing the Apam Balik, also known as the peanut pancake turnover or the moonlight peanut pancake. This Malaysian street food delicacy has been around for decades and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Why will you love this recipe you ask? Well, let me count the ways.
First and foremost, it’s an incredibly easy recipe to make at home. You don’t need any special equipment or fancy techniques. All you need are some basic ingredients like flour, sugar, egg, baking powder, and water. And voila! You have your very own Apam Balik.
Secondly, this recipe is extremely versatile. You can customize the filling to your liking. If you’re not a fan of roasted peanuts and sweet corn butter folded into your pancakes, why not try using bananas instead? Or maybe some creamy sweet fillings like creamed corn, sugar-butter or even dairy-free options like vegan Apam Balik.
Thirdly, this recipe is a perfect representation of Malaysian culture and cuisine. It’s a dish that’s near and dear to Malaysians’ hearts and has become synonymous with Malaysian street food alongside other specialties like Terang Bulan (indonesian name) or Martabak Manis (indonesian name) which are also known as Nyonya Apam.
Finally, there’s just something special about indulging in a warm and delicious snack that transports us back to our fondest memories of childhood. Whether you’ve tried this pancake on the streets of Malaysia or elsewhere around the world, it’s sure to bring back fond memories of the time you spent enjoying life with loved ones in captivating Southeast Asia.
So, what’s not to love about this classic Asian Peanut Pancake recipe? With its simple ingredient list, mouth-watering filling options and nostalgic vibes, it’s easy to see why it continues to reign as one of the most-loved street foods in Southeast Asia. Give it a try today and let yourself be transported to a place filled with delightful aromas and irresistible flavors.
Ingredient List
Before we start, let’s ensure that you have all the necessary ingredients to make this Apam Balik recipe. Most of these ingredients can be found at your local grocery store or Asian market. Don’t worry if you cannot find some of the ingredients as I will provide substitution options.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) rice flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5 teaspoons sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup (240ml) water
Fillings (optional)
- Bananas, sliced
- Roasted peanuts, sugar and creamy sweet corn mixed together
- Peanut butter, creamy or crunchy
Note: Apam Balik is a versatile dish that allows for creative experimentation. So feel free to use other fillings such as Nutella, cheese, or even fresh fruits!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you know why you will love this dish and have your ingredients ready, it is time to learn how to make the Apam Balik! This crispy and fluffy Asian pancake turnover filled with roasted peanuts, sugar, creamy sweet corn, and butter folded in half is a delicious Malaysian street food. And with this recipe, you can enjoy it at the comfort of your own home!
Ingredients Mixing
Let’s start by mixing the dry ingredients together in a mixing bowl:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 tbsp rice flour
* 5 tsp baking powder
* 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 2 tbsp sugar
Once the dry ingredients are mixed well, create a well in the center.
In another bowl, whisk together:
* 1 egg lightly beaten
* 2 tbsp vegetable oil
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
Next, slowly add water into the wet mixture until it becomes smooth. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the well with the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth. Set aside.
Peanut Pancake Filling
Let’s create the peanut pancake filling next! In a pan over medium heat, toast:
* 1/4 cup of peanuts
* 2 tbsp sugar
until golden brown.
Once done, transfer them to a plate and let them cool. Once cooled, chop them finely.
In another pan over medium-low heat, melt:
* 2 tbsp of butter
Add in:
* 1/4 cup of sweet creamed corn
And stir-fry everything for about a minute. Combine the chopped peanuts with the corn mixture and turn off heat.
Making Apam Balik
Now it is time to make your Apam Balik. Heat up your non-stick pan over low heat. Lightly butter it using a brush.
Ladle enough batter into the pan to cover its surface thinly. It should be around half cup or less for small size Apam Balik. Cook until bubbles start appearing on top.
Next, spoon in some of the Peanut Pancake Filling. Fold the pancake in half using a spatula and continue cooking both sides until they are golden brown.
Set your delicious Apam Balik, filled roasted peanuts and creamy sweet corn onto a plate and serve hot!
Enjoy this snack on its own or pair it with a cold glass of milk tea for an extra indulgence!
Happy cooking!
Substitutions and Variations
Hey, folks! If you’re like me and love to experiment with your cooking, then this section is for you. In this section, I will walk you through some substitutions and variations that you can apply to the apam balik recipe.
Let’s start with the flour. If you don’t have rice flour on hand, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. However, bear in mind that the texture of your pancake will be slightly different.
What if you’re vegan? No problem at all! You can make this recipe vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg or applesauce. The pancake will still turn out fluffy and delicious.
If you’re allergic to peanuts or simply prefer a different flavor profile, you can replace the peanuts with other nuts such as cashews or almonds. Moreover, try experimenting by adding some fruits such as bananas or strawberries; they’ll give your pancake turnover a nice twist.
Want a savory pancake instead? Add some onions, scallions or chopped herbs to your pancake batter. It’ll add some zing to your pancake turnover filled with roasted goodies!
Lastly, if you come across names such as terang bulan, martabak manis, nyonya apam or min jiang kueh when searching for recipes online – they all refer to similar street food that resembles apam balik. Each region has its own local twist and specialty when it comes to filling and toppings.
I hope these substitution and variation suggestions inspire you to get creative in the kitchen!
Serving and Pairing
One of the great things about Apam Balik is its versatility. It can be served as a quick snack or as a sweet dessert. You can serve it alone, sprinkle it with powdered sugar, or even drizzle it with chocolate sauce. If you’re feeling particularly decadent, add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Apam Balik is best paired with different drinks depending on your preference. For a classic combination, try pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for that perfect morning or mid-afternoon snack. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.
If you want to mix up your drink choices, iced milk tea, lemonade, and even fruit juices make for refreshing and delicious beverage options to sip on while enjoying this Malaysian delicacy on a hot day.
For those looking to indulge in an adult beverage, try pairing your Apam Balik with a glass of port or a dessert wine. Their sweetness complements the pancake’s crispy and fluffy texture.
Sweet and savory food pairings are always welcome in Malaysian cuisine, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Try spreading some peanut butter on top or adding some sliced bananas into the pancake for another layer of flavor.
As street food pancakes are best when they’re hot off the griddle or pan, make sure you serve them immediately after cooking. Your guests will surely thank you for serving these appetizing treats up fresh and warm from the kitchen.
In conclusion, no matter how you choose to dress up or pair your Apam Balik dish, one thing is for sure – you won’t be able to stop at just one bite!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ah, the beauty of make-ahead and storing tips! As an experienced cook, I always plan ahead and prepare extra servings for the week. That’s why I’m eager to share with you how to make your Apam Balik ahead of time, store it safely, and reheat it perfectly.
Now, let me caution you that the Apam Balik is best cooked and consumed fresh to enjoy its crispy and fluffy texture, filled with roasted peanuts, sugar or creamy sweet corn. However, if you’re making this asian pancake recipe for a crowd or just want to save some for later snacking, follow these simple steps:
To make-ahead:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F.
2. Once you’ve cooked your Apam Balik pancakes, let them cool and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
3. Place the wrapped pancakes on a baking sheet in the preheated oven and leave them there for up to 2 hours.
To store:
1. Once the pancakes have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container or plastic zipper bag.
2. The Apam Balik pancake batter can be refrigerated overnight if needed but should be brought back to room temperature before cooking.
To reheat:
1. Heat up a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Unwrap an Apam Balik pancake from storage and place it on the pan.
3. Heat it for up to 1 minute on each side until it’s heated through.
4. Alternatively, you can reheat the pancake quickly in a microwave at high power for 5 seconds.
Note that the quality of texture and taste may be slightly different from freshly made pancakes because reheating may alter their crispiness or fluffiness. However, with these tips, you can still enjoy your delicious malaysian pancakes with minimum effort anytime you crave that streetfood pancake goodness.
But wait! Before we conclude this recipe article with my personal favorites of serving and pairing ideas in the next section, let’s tackle some frequently asked questions about the Apam Balik asian pancake recipe next!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making the perfect apam balik, there are a few tips that can help ensure success. First and foremost, make sure to measure all ingredients accurately. Even small variations in measurements, particularly with the baking powder and bicarbonate of soda, can affect the texture of your final product.
Next, it’s important to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding in the wet ingredients. This ensures that all the baking powder and bicarbonate of soda is evenly distributed throughout the batter. Mix until there are no more lumps!
For a crispy and fluffy pancake turnover, cook each side over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. Be patient – resist the urge to flip too soon! Turning too early can result in uneven cooking and sticking to the pan.
If you want a peanut pancake turnover that’s filled with roasted peanuts, sugar, creamy sweet corn, or banana, fold it in half while it’s still cooking so that it gets incorporated into the filling. For a dairy-free version, leave out the butter and use oil instead. To ensure an even distribution of toppings, spread them evenly on top of each pancake before folding.
Finally, if you’re making apam balik for the first time, don’t be discouraged if your first batch doesn’t turn out quite right. It often takes practice to master any recipe, especially one as delicious as this Malaysian streetfood pancake!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and authentic apam balik at home!
FAQ
As a culinary explorer, I understand that cooking can be challenging, especially when it comes to trying out new recipes. Therefore, I have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that you may have about the Apam Balik – Asian Pancake Recipe to help make your cooking experience as smooth as possible. These questions cover everything from ingredient substitution to serving suggestions and storage options. So, before you dive into this delicious recipe, take some time to read through these FAQs and get all your doubts clarified!
What is Apam Balik made of?
Have you ever tried a crispy and fluffy peanut pancake turnover filled with a mixture of roasted peanuts, sugar, creamy sweet corn, and butter, all folded into half? This dish is a classic Malaysian favorite that can be enjoyed for breakfast or tea time. It’s a nostalgic dish with a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
What is apam balik in chinese?
Mànjiānguǒ, also known as peanut pancake or ‘moonlight’, is a popular dessert from Fujian cuisine that has now branched out into many variations. It can be found at specialty street stalls and restaurants in countries like Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.
What is apam balik in english?
This popular delicacy in Southeast Asia goes by different names such as ‘turnover pancake’, ‘bright moon’ and ‘sweet martabak’. It is typically sold at individual roadside stalls scattered across Indonesia.
What is apam balik malaysia?
If you’re on the hunt for a new and exciting dessert to get your taste buds dancing, try making Apam Balik – a popular street food treat from Malaysia. These pancakes are stuffed with a combination of sweet creamy corn, peanuts, sugar, and butter, resulting in a delicious and indulgent snack. My version is dairy-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. I promise you won’t regret trying this cultural delicacy!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, apam balik is a beloved Asian pancake recipe that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many people around the world. With its crispy and fluffy texture, filled with roasted peanuts, sugar, creamy sweet corn or even banana, this pancake turnover is a delicacy that is hard to resist.
Whether you’re a fan of street food or just looking for something new to try in the kitchen, I highly recommend giving this recipe a shot. Not only is it delicious and easy to make at home, but it’s also dairy-free and can be made vegan with a few easy substitutions.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your mixing bowl and get ready to experience the deliciousness of apam balik. Whether you’re trying this pancake for the first time or have been enjoying it for years, I guarantee that you’ll love it just as much as I do.
Now go forth and make your own apam balik – let me know how it turns out!
Apam Balik - Asian Pancake Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 -5 bananas, sliced thinly
(A)
- 300 g flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Mix
- 325 ml water
- 1/2 teaspoon yellow food coloring
Instructions
- Put (A) in a mixing bowl and add in egg.
- Add water slowly.
- Mix to a smooth batter then leave aside to stand for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat a nonstick pan and add a ladle of batter. Cook for a while then add the banana slices. Cover the pan to cook the apam.
- Please note the coloring I actually use only few drops (1/2 tsp is only my estimation) just to have a slight yellowish color.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.