Kerupuk Bali

Introduction

Kerupuk Bali, a popular Indonesian snack, is a crispy and flavorful cracker often enjoyed as a side dish or a standalone treat. It is renowned for its unique taste and texture, originating from Bali, Indonesia. The island of Bali is famous for its rich culinary heritage, vibrant culture, and tropical landscapes, all of which contribute to the distinct character of Kerupuk Bali. This delightful snack is a fine representation of Balinese traditions, blending aromatic spices and ingredients to create a flavorful experience. In this recipe, we will explore how to make authentic Kerupuk Bali at home, preserving traditional techniques while also embracing modern conveniences.

Ingredients

• Tapioca Flour - 500g
• Palm Sugar - 100g
• Water - 1 liter
• Shallots - 5 cloves, finely chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, finely chopped
• Candlenuts - 3 pieces
• Galangal - 1 inch, grated
• Lemongrass - 1 stalk, smashed
• Kaffir Lime Leaves - 3 leaves
• Coconut Milk - 200ml
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• White Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Vegetable Oil - for deep frying

Preparation

Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Proper preparation is essential in crafting authentic Kerupuk Bali. It's important to source fresh, high-quality ingredients, particularly the tapioca flour and palm sugar, as these form the base of the crackers.

Mise en Place

1. Finely chop the shallots and garlic.
2. Grate the galangal and prepare the lemongrass by smashing it gently to release the aromatic oils.
3. Measure out the tapioca flour, palm sugar, and coconut milk.
4. Get ready the salt and white pepper to season your mixture appropriately.

Cooking Process

Making the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine tapioca flour and a small portion of salt.
2. In a saucepan, dissolve palm sugar in water over medium heat.
3. Add chopped shallots, garlic, and grated galangal to the sugar mixture and continue to simmer.
4. Add smashed lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves into the pot for aroma.
5. Once the liquid mixture is well-combined, slowly pour it into the tapioca flour, stirring constantly to form a dough.
6. Gradually add coconut milk to the dough while kneading until it becomes smooth and pliable.

Shaping and Drying

1. Roll out the dough on a clean surface to a thickness of about 2mm, then cut it into your desired shapes.
2. Lay the shaped dough pieces on a tray and let them dry under the sun for at least one whole day, ensuring they are completely dehydrated before frying.

Frying the Crackers

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok until it reaches the suitable temperature. Use a cooking timer to avoid overheating.
2. Carefully place the dried dough pieces into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry the crackers until they puff up and turn golden brown, usually within just a few seconds.
4. Remove the crackers from the oil and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
5. Season the freshly fried crackers with additional salt and white pepper according to your taste preference.

Enjoying Kerupuk Bali

Kerupuk Bali can be enjoyed in various ways. They are commonly served as a side dish with traditional Indonesian meals, offering a delightful crunch that complements softer dishes like stews and curries. Alternatively, they can be enjoyed on their own as a savory snack. For an authentic experience, serve Kerupuk Bali with spicy sambal sauce or a side of peanut sauce for dipping. Balancing the crispness of the cracker with the heat of a spicy condiment makes for a truly satisfying treat. Whether part of a meal or as a standalone snack, Kerupuk Bali offers a little taste of Bali and its culinary essence in every crunchy bite. Enjoy with care while taking note of their rich flavors, a representation of the cultural tapestry of Indonesian cuisine.