Authentic Indonesian Kue Lupis Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of glutinous rice
1 teaspoon of salt
Pandan leaves as needed
2 cups of water
1 cup of grated coconut
2 cups of palm sugar
1 cup of water (for syrup)

Steps and instructions

Soak the glutinous rice in water for about 6 hours or overnight.
Drain the rice and mix in a teaspoon of salt.
Take a small amount of rice and shape it into a small cylindrical shape, then wrap it in a pandan leaf. Secure it with a toothpick or tie it with a string.
Place the wrapped rice parcels into a steamer and steam for about 60 minutes or until the rice is cooked and sticky.
While the rice is steaming, make the syrup. Combine palm sugar and a cup of water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Keep stirring until the sugar has fully dissolved and the syrup has thickened.
Grate a cup of fresh coconut and set it aside.
Once the rice is cooked, remove the parcels from the steamer and let them cool.
When the rice has cooled, remove the pandan leaf wraps. Dip each rice parcel in the palm sugar syrup and then roll it in the grated coconut.
Repeat until all the rice parcels are coated in syrup and coconut. Enjoy your Kue Lupis!

Tools for making

Steamer - A steamer will be needed to steam the glutinous rice parcels.
Saucepan - A saucepan will be used to make the palm sugar syrup.
Grater - A grater will be used to grate the fresh coconut for coating the rice parcels.
Toothpick or String - Toothpicks or strings will be needed to secure the pandan leaf wraps around the rice parcels.

Recipe variations

Use different types of rice, such as black glutinous rice or jasmine rice, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add pandan extract or pandan essence to the rice mixture for a fragrant twist.
Instead of using grated coconut, try using desiccated coconut or toasted sesame seeds for a different coating.
For a savory variation, fill the rice parcels with a sweet and savory filling like coconut and palm sugar mixed with crushed peanuts.
Experiment with different fillings such as diced fruits like mango or banana for a fruity and refreshing taste.
Make a vegan version by substituting palm sugar with other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar, and using vegetable oil instead of butter for the coating.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the rice mixture for a warm and aromatic flavor.
Instead of steaming, try grilling the rice parcels for a smoky flavor.
Serve the Kue Lupis with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for an indulgent twist.

Recipe overview

"Welcome to our recipe for Kue Lupis, a traditional Indonesian sweet treat made from glutinous rice, palm sugar syrup and grated coconut. This delicacy, often enjoyed during Ramadan and other special occasions, offers a delightful combination of sweet, sticky rice and fragrant, chewy coconut. Making Kue Lupis at home can be a fun and rewarding process. It involves soaking and steaming the rice, creating a rich syrup from palm sugar and water, and finishing off with a coating of freshly grated coconut. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through each stage of the process. So, let's get started and make some delicious Kue Lupis together!"

Common questions

Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice? No, glutinous rice is essential for achieving the sticky texture of Kue Lupis. Regular rice will not yield the same results.
How long should I soak the glutinous rice? Soak the glutinous rice for about 6 hours or overnight to ensure it is fully hydrated and cooks evenly.
Can I substitute pandan leaves with something else? Pandan leaves provide a unique aroma and flavor to Kue Lupis. If you cannot find pandan leaves, you can omit them, but the taste will be slightly different.
How do I know when the rice is cooked? The rice is cooked when it becomes soft, sticky, and translucent. You can check the texture by pressing a grain of rice between your fingers.
Can I use desiccated coconut instead of fresh grated coconut? Fresh grated coconut is recommended for the best taste and texture. Desiccated coconut may not provide the same level of freshness and moisture.
How long will the Kue Lupis stay fresh? Kue Lupis is best enjoyed fresh on the day it is made. However, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Can I make the syrup in advance? Yes, you can prepare the palm sugar syrup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before using to dip the rice parcels.
Can I freeze Kue Lupis? It is not recommended to freeze Kue Lupis as it may affect the texture and freshness. It is best to consume them within a couple of days.

Serving dishes and utensils

Steamer - Used to steam the glutinous rice until it is cooked and sticky.
Saucepan - Used to make the palm sugar syrup.
Grater - Used to grate the fresh coconut.
Toothpicks or string - Used to secure the pandan leaf wraps around the rice parcels.

Origin stories

Kue Lupis is a traditional Indonesian dessert, beloved not only for its sweet and satisfying taste but also for its cultural significance. It is often made during special occasions and celebrations, symbolizing gratitude and togetherness. It's fascinating to note that the wrapping and unwrapping process of Kue Lupis represents the process of life. The pandan leaves that encase the glutinous rice are said to symbolize the human soul protecting the body. As one unwraps the Kue Lupis and enjoys its sweet, sticky delight, it's as if they're appreciating the beauty of life's journey.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.