Bali Dadar Rolls

Background and History

Bali Dadar Rolls are a traditional sweet snack from Bali, Indonesia. Known locally as Dadar Gulung, these delicious rolls are a popular treat at Balinese ceremonies and are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. With origins deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, Dadar Gulung mirrors the rich culinary tapestry of the region, blending coconut, pandan, and palm sugar to create a unique flavor that is quintessentially Balinese.

The word "Dadar" in Indonesian translates to "omelette," while "Gulung" means "to roll" or "rolled." The traditional preparation involves a thin green pancake made from rice flour and coconut milk, infused with the aromatic pandan leaf, then filled with a sweet coconut mixture. It is said that the color green symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, adding a layer of cultural significance to this already beloved dish.

Ingredients

• Rice Flour - 150g
• Coconut Milk - 100ml
• Pandan Leaves - 5-7 leaves or Pandan Paste - 1 tsp
• Egg - 1
• Salt - A pinch
• Grated Coconut - 200g
• Palm Sugar - 150g
• Water - 50ml
• Vanilla Essence - 1 tsp (optional)

Preparation

1. Creating the Pancake Batter

To make the vibrant green pancakes, begin with sourcing fresh pandan leaves. If fresh leaves are unavailable, pandan paste is a suitable substitute. Blend the pandan leaves with a small amount of water until smooth, and strain to extract the juice. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, coconut milk, vanilla essence if using, the egg, a pinch of salt, and the pandan juice or paste. Mix until you get a smooth batter. Rest the batter for 15-20 minutes to ensure a tender pancake.

2. Preparing the Filling

While the batter is resting, prepare the sweet coconut filling. In a saucepan, combine grated coconut, shaved palm sugar, and water. Cook over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes sticky, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before using.

Cooking Process

3. Making the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly oil it. Pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan, tilting and rotating to spread it evenly, forming a thin layer. Cook the pancake for approximately 1-2 minutes or until the edges begin to crisp up, then gently flip to cook the other side for another minute.

4. Assembling the Rolls

Once a pancake is cooked, transfer it to a clean surface. Place about a tablespoon of the coconut filling along one edge. Fold in the sides and roll it up like a spring roll. Repeat the process until all the batter and filling are used.

Enjoying Bali Dadar Rolls

Bali Dadar Rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a delightful snack with tea or coffee. The combination of the savory, slightly salty pancake paired with the sweet coconut filling creates an exciting balance of flavors. These rolls are perfect for sharing, creating a sweet taste of Balinese tradition that can be enjoyed wherever you are.

For more insight on cooking times and ensuring your pancakes are perfectly cooked, refer to our cooking timer guide.