Authentic Indonesian Lepet Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

2 cups of glutinous rice
1 cup of black beans
2 cups of coconut milk
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1 teaspoon of salt
1 cup of grated coconut
25 pieces of banana leaves

Steps and instructions

Soak the glutinous rice and black beans in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Drain the soaked glutinous rice and black beans. Set them aside.
Prepare the steamer and bring the water to a boil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked glutinous rice, black beans, coconut milk, brown sugar, salt, and grated coconut. Mix them thoroughly until well combined.
Prepare the banana leaves by cleaning them and cutting them into squares. They should be large enough to wrap the mixture.
Place a scoop of the mixture in the center of the banana leaf. Fold the banana leaf to create a pocket, and secure it with a toothpick or string.
Place the wrapped mixture in the steamer. Steam it for about 1-2 hours or until the rice is fully cooked.
Remove them from the steamer and allow them to cool before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ingredients.
Steamer - A cooking utensil used to steam the lepet.
Toothpick or String - Used to secure the wrapped lepet.
Knife - To cut the banana leaves into squares.

Recipe variations

Use white rice instead of glutinous rice for a different texture.
Replace black beans with red beans or mung beans for variety.
Add diced fruits like jackfruit or mango for a fruity twist.
Try using pandan leaves or pandan essence to infuse a fragrant flavor into the mixture.
Replace coconut milk with almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm and aromatic taste.
Create a savory version by adding cooked meat or minced vegetables to the mixture.
Wrap the mixture in lotus leaves instead of banana leaves for a unique flavor.
Top the lepet with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch.

Recipe overview

This recipe page will guide you step by step on how to make Lepet, a traditional Indonesian dessert made from glutinous rice, black beans, and coconut, all wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed. This dessert is often made for special occasions and ceremonies. The dish has a unique, rich flavor from the combination of ingredients and the steaming process, and it offers a delightful variation in texture from the soft, sticky rice and the crunch of the black beans. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process from soaking the rice and beans, preparing the banana leaves, mixing the ingredients, to the steaming process. It's a relatively simple recipe, but requires some time and patience - the end result is definitely worth it!

Common questions

Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice? No, glutinous rice is essential for this recipe as it gives Lepet its sticky and chewy texture.
Can I use canned coconut milk? Yes, you can use canned coconut milk for convenience. However, fresh coconut milk will provide a more authentic flavor.
Can I substitute brown sugar with white sugar? Yes, you can use white sugar as a substitute for brown sugar. However, brown sugar adds a caramel-like flavor to the Lepet, so the taste may slightly differ.
Can I skip using grated coconut? Grated coconut adds a wonderful aroma and texture to Lepet. However, if you cannot find grated coconut, you can omit it from the recipe.
Can I steam Lepet without banana leaves? Banana leaves are traditionally used to wrap and steam Lepet, as they impart a unique flavor. However, if you cannot find banana leaves, you can use parchment paper as a substitute.
How long can I store Lepet? Lepet can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Serving dishes and utensils

Steamer - A steamer is needed to cook the lepet. It should be large enough to accommodate the wrapped mixture.
Toothpicks or string - Toothpicks or string are used to secure the banana leaves and keep the lepet tightly wrapped during steaming.
Knife - A knife is needed to cut the banana leaves into squares and to portion the lepet before serving.
Mixing bowl - A large mixing bowl is required to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
Sieve or colander - A sieve or colander is useful for draining the soaked glutinous rice and black beans.

Origin stories

Lepet is a traditional snack from Indonesia, particularly from the Javanese community. It is often made and consumed during special occasions and celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim celebration after Ramadan, and the Javanese New Year. The sticky texture of Lepet is said to symbolize the strength of the community's bond and the sweetness of their togetherness. Interestingly, Lepet is also given as a special gift during weddings or the birth of a child as a gesture of sharing happiness and prosperity. The process of making Lepet is mostly done communally, which further strengthens the sense of camaraderie and unity among the people.

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.