Apam balik

Story behind the dish

Imagine waking up to a sweet, nutty aroma wafting through the air, infused with the comforting scent of freshly cooked batter. Apam balik, a beloved street food in Southeast Asia, is more than just a pancake—it's a delightful dance of textures and flavors, combining crispy edges with a tender center filled with peanuts, corn, and a touch of sweetness. With its roots steeped in tradition, this treat is a perfect way to start your day or serve as a satisfying snack. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or introducing someone new to this signature dish, making apam balik is a joyful and rewarding culinary adventure.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) Milk
• 1/4 cup (4 tbsp) Oil
• 2 Eggs
• 6 1/2 cups (800 g) All-purpose Flour
• 3 tsp Baking Powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 1.75 oz (45 g) Sugar
• 3 tbsp Peanut Butter
• 1/4 cup (40 g) Creamed Corn
• 1/4 cup (40 g) Crushed Peanuts

Step-by-step

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the milk, oil, and eggs. Whisk together until smooth and well mixed.
2. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour a small ladle of batter onto the pan, spreading it into a thin layer along one side. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 30-60 seconds, until you see small air bubbles forming on the surface.
4. Once bubbles appear, add a small dollop of butter, some cream corn, crushed peanuts, and a teaspoon of sugar onto the pancake. Fold the pancake in half and cook for another minute, or until the bottom becomes beautifully golden brown.
5. Carefully transfer the cooked apam balik to a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking as needed.
6. Cut each pancake into wedges and serve warm, enjoying the crispy edges complemented by the sweet, nutty filling.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra touch of richness, drizzle with honey or sweetened condensed milk before serving.
• Serve your apam balik alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy snack or breakfast treat.

Closing thoughts

Baking up a batch of apam balik is like sharing a little piece of Southeast Asian street food magic in your own kitchen. Each crispy fold encases a symphony of flavors, textures, and memories waiting to be made—be it for a weekend breakfast or an indulgent afternoon snack. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this delightful, warm cheat of a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.