Shwe Yin Aye
Introduction to Shwe Yin Aye
Shwe Yin Aye is a popular traditional dessert from Myanmar, known for its refreshing and sweet taste. It combines the richness of coconut cream with the texture of sticky rice and the sweetness of various toppings, making it a beloved treat especially during the hot summer months. Traditionally, Shwe Yin Aye is served during the Thingyan festival, which is the Burmese New Year Water Festival.
Ingredients
Preparation
Preparing the Sticky Rice
First, rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 3 hours. After soaking, steam the rice for 20-25 minutes or until it becomes thoroughly soft and sticky. Allow it to cool at room temperature.
Making the Coconut Cream
In a saucepan, add the coconut milk, a pinch of salt, and palm sugar. Heat the mixture over a medium flame, stirring continuously until the palm sugar dissolves completely. Add a dash of vanilla extract to the mixture and remove from heat. Let this mixture cool to room temperature.
Preparing the Agar Agar Jelly
To prepare the agar agar jelly, dissolve the agar powder in hot water. Once the powder is completely dissolved, pour the mixture into a flat dish and allow it to set in the refrigerator until firm. Once set, cut the jelly into small, bite-sized cubes.
Cooking the Sago
Cook the sago pearls in boiling water until they turn translucent. This should take approximately 10 minutes. Once cooked, rinse them under cold running water and set aside to drain.
Assembly
To assemble Shwe Yin Aye, start by placing a generous amount of sticky rice into a bowl. Arrange a few cubes of the agar agar jelly on top, add a spoonful of cooked sago pearls, and top with pieces of nipa seeds. Finally, pour the cooled coconut cream over the entire mixture.
Enjoying Shwe Yin Aye
Shwe Yin Aye is best enjoyed chilled, providing a refreshing treat on a hot day. For added flavor, you can include variations such as adding seasonal tropical fruits like mango or jackfruit, making it even more delightful. This dessert not only satisfies sweet cravings but also provides a soothing experience with each bite.