Kueh Talam (Coconut & Pandan Cake) Recipe

Kueh Talam is a traditional Southeast Asian dessert, particularly popular in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. This delightful two-layered steamed cake combines the fragrant green pandan layer with a rich and creamy coconut layer. The contrast of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

Pandan Layer:

1 cup pandan juice (blend 6-7 pandan leaves with 1 cup water, then strain)
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup rice flour
2 tbsp mung bean flour (or cornstarch)
1/4 tsp salt
Few drops of green food coloring (optional)

Coconut Layer:

1 cup thick coconut milk
1/4 cup rice flour
2 tbsp mung bean flour (or cornstarch)
1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pandan Layer:

a. In a mixing bowl, combine pandan juice, coconut milk, sugar, rice flour, mung bean flour, and salt. b. Stir well until smooth and no lumps remain. Strain the mixture for a silky texture. c. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until slightly thickened. d. Pour the thickened batter into a greased 7-inch round or square steaming tray. e. Steam for 15 minutes over medium heat.

2. Prepare the Coconut Layer:

a. In a clean bowl, mix coconut milk, rice flour, mung bean flour, and salt. b. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and strain if necessary. c. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until slightly thickened. d. Gently pour over the steamed pandan layer. e. Steam for another 15-20 minutes until fully set.

3. Cooling and Serving:

a. Allow the kueh to cool completely before slicing. b. Cut into small squares or diamond shapes for serving. c. Enjoy with a cup of tea!

Tips for Perfect Kueh Talam:

Use fresh pandan leaves for the best natural fragrance.
Stir continuously when cooking the batter to avoid lumps.
Let the pandan layer set before adding the coconut layer to maintain distinct layers.
Always cool completely before cutting to get clean slices.

Kueh Talam is a simple yet elegant dessert that showcases the best flavors of coconut and pandan. Try this recipe and enjoy the soft, slightly chewy texture of this classic treat!