Khao Tan Bua, or Crispy Lotus Stem Dessert, is a delightful testament to the ingenuity of Thai cuisine. This seemingly simple dish transforms the humble lotus stem into a captivating culinary experience, showcasing the delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors so characteristic of Thai desserts. Its crispy exterior gives way to a tender, subtly sweet interior, a textural contrast that elevates this treat beyond the ordinary. The preparation involves a fascinating process of deep-frying and then delicately caramelizing, resulting in a visually stunning and utterly delicious snack.
This ancient Thai tradition, often enjoyed as a refreshing snack or a sweet accompaniment to tea, is surprisingly easy to recreate at home. For a step-by-step guide that will have you creating your own batch of Khao Tan Bua in no time, simply continue reading. You'll discover the secrets to achieving the perfect crispy exterior and irresistible sweet-savory balance that makes this dessert so uniquely captivating.
Tools Needed
- Sieve
- Mixing bowl
- Pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Egg: 1
- Lime water
- Vegetable oil
- Coconut milk
- Palm oil
- Water
- Sugar
- Green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Dough
- Sift the flour and add in all-purpose flour. Followed by a sieve to sift the flour. Our flour becomes smoother and finer after that.
- Add salt and mix it until well blended. Make a hole in the center and put 1 egg in it. Use your hands to knead it until it is mixed.
- Add lime water to make our dessert crispy. Add vegetable oil to prevent our dessert from absorbing oil.
- Gradually add coconut milk, alternating with kneading, until it’s all gone. Keep massaging until you get soft, smooth dough that doesn’t stick to your hands.
- Knead the dough until smooth and soft. The texture should be like clay, neither too runny nor too dry. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes to hydrate.
- After 30 minutes, knead the dough for 1 minute. Sprinkle a thin layer of all-purpose flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2. Shape and Fry the Lotus Stems
- Cut the dough into pieces and shape them into long noodles. Cut the ends and shape them into stick-like forms, similar to lotus stems.
- Fry the lotus stem cakes in palm oil over medium-low heat, stirring continuously to ensure even cooking. Avoid high heat to prevent burning or watery desserts.
- Fry until golden yellow and crispy. Set aside to drain the oil.
Step 3. Make the Sugar Coating
- Put the pan on the stove, add clean water, salt, and sugar. Simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Continue simmering until the liquid thickens.
- Add chopped green onions for aroma. Add the fried lotus stem cakes to the sugar coating. Stir continuously until the sugar cools and crystallizes.
Step 4. Complete and Store
- Remove from heat, let cool completely, then pack and store to prevent air exposure.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Use medium-low heat when frying to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Check if the oil is hot enough by dropping a piece of cake; if it puffs up, the oil is ready.
- The sugar coating is ready when it forms small bubbles or flows slowly.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of stem?
While lotus stems are ideal, you can experiment with other firm vegetables like jicama or water chestnuts, but the texture might differ.
2. How do I prevent the lotus stem from becoming soggy?
Ensure the lotus stem is completely dry before frying. Use high heat for a quick, even crisp.
3. What can I substitute for the palm sugar?
Brown sugar or even granulated sugar can be used, but palm sugar offers the most authentic flavor profile.
Making Khao Tan Bua is a rewarding culinary adventure, offering a delicious taste of Thai tradition. The satisfying crunch and unique flavor profile make it a perfect treat to share with friends and family, or simply enjoy as a delightful personal indulgence. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this simple yet enchanting journey into the world of Thai desserts!