Recipe | Apam Balik

Apam Balik, a popular Malaysian street food, is a delectable pancake filled with a sweet and savory surprise. Translating to "turnover pancake" in English, this treat has won the hearts and taste buds of many across Malaysia.

Picture Credit : Christie at Home

Ingredients

The basic ingredients for Apam Balik include flour, sugar, baking soda, eggs, and coconut milk. The batter is poured onto a hot griddle, creating a thin and crispy base. What sets Apam Balik apart is its filling, typically a mixture of crushed peanuts, sugar, and sometimes a sprinkle of sweet corn.

Cooking Process

The cooking process is an art in itself. Once the batter is poured onto the griddle, the cook skillfully adds the desired fillings and folds the pancake into a half-moon shape. The result is a crispy exterior with a gooey, flavorful center.

Variations

While the classic Apam Balik is cherished, there are regional and personal variations. Some include a spread of butter or chocolate, adding a modern twist to the traditional recipe. In certain regions, you might find vendors experimenting with diverse fillings like grated cheese or even durian, a polarizing tropical fruit.

Street Food Sensation

What makes Apam Balik truly special is its status as a beloved street food. The tantalizing aroma wafts through bustling markets and busy street corners, drawing locals and tourists alike. It's not just a treat for the taste buds but also a cultural experience, as patrons gather around the vendor, watching the preparation unfold.

Cultural Significance

Apam Balik is more than just a snack; it's a cultural symbol. Its history can be traced back generations, and the art of making this pancake has been passed down through families. Sharing Apam Balik often accompanies festive occasions and celebrations, reinforcing its place in Malaysian culinary heritage.

Apam Balik is not just a pancake; it's a journey into Malaysian flavors and traditions. Its perfect balance of textures and tastes, from the crispy shell to the luscious filling, makes it a treat worth savoring. So, the next time you find yourself in Malaysia, don't miss the chance to indulge in the delightful experience of Apam Balik.

Apam Balik Recipe

INGREDIENTS

Batter

• 100g all purpose flour

• 100g self-rising flour

• 25g white sugar

• 3/4 tsp baking soda

• A pinch of fine salt

• 7g dry yeast

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 egg

• 150g of Fernleaf Full Cream UHT milk

• 100g water

Fillings

• White sugar as required

• Roasted chopped peanuts as required

• Creamy sweet corn as required

• 100g Anchor Salted Butter (room temperature)

DIRECTIONS

1. Mix all ingredients for the batter in a bowl, make sure all well combined, smooth & no such lumps.

2. Transfer the batter in a covered container, rest the mixture at room temperature for 45 minutes, or until you can see small bubbles appears.

3. Prepare a 9" non-stick pan, using a low heat up & brush with a thin layer of Anchor Salted Butter on the surface of the pan.

4. Whisk again before adding the mixture using a ladle into the heated pan, ensure the batter are well spread.

5. Cover the pan for around 3 minutes, take off the cover see if you can see any small bubbles appears. Sprinkle with sugar all over the cooked batter, chopped peanut and sweet corn.

6. Cover the pan again for around 1 minute or until the crust is nicely golden brown. Add a bit of Anchor Salted Butter all over the toppings.

7. Take out the prepared Apam Balik from the pan, fold into 1/2, brush with Anchor Salted Butter. Cut, serve & enjoy!