Kolak Pisang - Indonesian Dessert

palm sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Coconut sugar offers a similar flavor with lower glycemic index.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Almond milk is lower in calories, while evaporated milk is more affordable.

tapioca pearls

🥗Healthier: chia seeds

💰Cheaper: cornstarch

Chia seeds provide similar texture with added fiber.

ripe bananas

🥗Healthier: plantains

💰Cheaper: any local banana variety

Plantains add a unique flavor and are often more available.

Peel and slice the ripe bananas into thick pieces.

Soak tapioca pearls in water for 30 minutes.

Boil water in a pot over medium heat.

Add soaked tapioca pearls to the boiling water and cook until translucent, about 10 minutes.

Drain the tapioca pearls and set aside.

In the same pot, combine coconut milk, palm sugar, and a pinch of salt.

Add pandan leaves and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3-5 minutes.

Add the sliced bananas to the pot and simmer until they are tender, about 5 minutes.

Remove pandan leaves from the pot.

Stir in vanilla extract and the cooked tapioca pearls.

Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional coconut milk if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary