Klepon

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Onde-onde

Kue-kue basah Pasar Bulu Semarang

Kue putu klepon keliling

Klepon is a traditional Southeast Asian sweet snack that is popular in several countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is known by various names in different regions, such as onde-onde in parts of Indonesia and Malaysia. Klepon is categorized under Asian cuisine and is a significant part of the region's culinary heritage, often served during festivals and celebrations.

Description

Klepon consists of glutinous rice flour balls filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut. The glutinous rice flour gives klepon its distinctive chewy texture, while the palm sugar inside provides a sweet, molten surprise upon biting into it. The addition of grated coconut not only adds to its flavor but also provides a contrasting texture to the soft and chewy ball.

Preparation

The preparation of klepon involves mixing glutinous rice flour with pandan juice to give it a natural green color and a fragrant aroma. The dough is then formed into small balls, each filled with a piece of palm sugar before being boiled in water. Once they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked, they are rolled in grated coconut to finish.

Cultural Significance

Klepon is not just a snack but a cultural symbol in the regions it originates from. It is often associated with traditional Javanese and Balinese ceremonies and rituals. In Indonesia, klepon is a popular snack during the Islamic festival of Eid al-Fitr, where it is enjoyed as part of the feast that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

Variations

While the traditional klepon is green from the pandan juice, variations exist in different regions. Some are made without pandan, leaving the dough white, while others might incorporate different flavors or colors. The filling can also vary, with some versions using chocolate or fruit jams as an alternative to palm sugar.

See Also

• Asian cuisine
• Glutinous rice
• Pandan
• Palm sugar
• Coconut