Hello everyone! Have you ever heard of a Javanese dish called Ketewol? People also call it gapek, ketiwol, tiwul, or tiwol. This traditional Javanese snack uses tapioca flour as its main ingredient. It first appeared as a creative way to replace rice when rice supplies ran low, especially in certain regions of Java. During those challenging times, communities relied on cassava as an affordable and accessible alternative. Today, you will rarely find Ketewol in commercial markets. Instead, locals often sell it in Javanese villages or at small community stalls. To prepare Ketewol, you will need a few basic ingredients, including tapioca flour, sugar, salt, pandan leaves, and grated coconut.
Isn’t that interesting? Let’s dive into the recipe:
Ingredients for Ketewol
- 450 grams Tapioca Flour
- 400 ml Hot Water
- 50 grams Sugar
- 100 grams Grated Coconut
- 10 grams Salt
Instructions for Preparation
- Sift the tapioca flour and gradually mix it with hot water. Stir until it forms a lump-free dough (not too sticky).
- Place the lumps of dough onto banana leaves and pandan leaves inside a steamer. Ensure that the steamer has already been heated.
- Steam for 15–20 minutes. After the first 10 minutes, stir the mixture to make sure it cooks evenly.
- The mixture is stirred after the first 10 minutes using a wooden spatula to ensure even steaming.
- Once the mixture is halfway cooked, add the grated coconut, which has been mixed with a little salt and sugar. Steam again for another 15 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, check if the Ketewol is fully cooked. If not, continue steaming for an additional 5 minutes.
Once prepared, people typically serve Ketewol in a style similar to fried rice or noodles. They scoop it onto a plate and eat it traditionally by hand, believing this method enhances its flavors and makes it taste richer or more “gurih,” as Javanese culture describes. Many enjoy Ketewol as a traditional snack at any time of the day—whether for breakfast, afternoon tea, or an evening treat. Its sweet and delightful taste pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, creating a truly enjoyable experience.
Happy cooking!
More articles related:
- Green Grapes vs. Red Grapes: Which Is Better?
- Kuih Mazola: The Timeless Peanut Nostalgia That Never Fades with Time
Article by Syuriana Ibrahim
