Bubur Kacang Hijau
Introduction
Bubur Kacang Hijau, also known as Mung Bean Porridge, is a traditional Indonesian dessert that is both nutritious and delicious. This comforting dish has been a staple in Indonesian cuisine for generations, often enjoyed during breakfast or as a light snack. The main ingredient, mung beans, is known for its rich protein and fiber content, making the dish not only tasty but also healthy.
Historically, Bubur Kacang Hijau might have originated from the food culture of Southeast Asia, where ingredients like mung beans and coconut milk are abundant. Over time, each region in Indonesia has put its own spin on the recipe, resulting in various versions with slight differences in flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- Mung beans - 200 grams
- Water - 1 liter
- Coconut milk - 250 ml
- Palm sugar - 100 grams, chopped
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Pandan leaf - 1 leaf, tied into a knot
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Mung Beans
Before you start cooking, it's essential to thoroughly rinse the mung beans under running water. This step helps remove any impurities or dust. Once rinsed, soak the mung beans in a bowl of water for at least 2 hours. Soaking helps soften the beans, reducing overall cooking time.
Step 2: Preparing Other Ingredients
While the mung beans are soaking, prepare the other ingredients. Chop the palm sugar into smaller pieces to help them dissolve faster. If you cannot find pandan leaf, it can be replaced with vanilla essence, but the traditional aroma might slightly differ.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Cooking the Mung Beans
After soaking, drain the mung beans and place them in a pot. Add 1 liter of water and the pandan leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce to a simmer and allow to cook.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the mung beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This should take approximately 45 minutes, but make sure to check the texture of the beans; they should be soft and mushy.
Step 2: Adding Coconut Milk and Palm Sugar
Once the mung beans are tender, remove the pandan leaf and add the palm sugar to the pot. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved into the mixture.
- Pour in the coconut milk and add the salt. Continue to simmer the porridge on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps prevent the coconut milk from curdling.
- Taste the porridge and adjust the sweetness by adding more palm sugar if necessary.
How to Enjoy Bubur Kacang Hijau
Bubur Kacang Hijau can be enjoyed both warm and cold. Serve it in a bowl and if desired, drizzle a bit of extra coconut milk on top before serving. For a richer texture, some also enjoy adding a splash of condensed milk.
This dessert pairs well with traditional Indonesian snacks such as fritters, or kueh. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast option or an afternoon snack, Bubur Kacang Hijau offers a comforting and sumptuous delight that is sure to please your taste buds.
Don't forget to share this traditional recipe with friends and family, encouraging them to enjoy a delightful piece of Indonesian culinary heritage.