Hey Lykkers! Looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to whip up but packed with flavor? Let me introduce you to Wajik, sometimes called Wajit Ngora — a beloved Indonesian dessert made from sticky rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar.
It’s sticky, sweet, and has that perfect balance of creamy and caramel flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more.
What Is Wajik?
Wajik is a traditional dessert where glutinous rice is cooked and mixed with a rich coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. This blend creates a chewy rice texture with a rich, sweet flavor that feels warm and deeply satisfying. It’s often served during special occasions, but it’s just as great to enjoy as a daily snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups glutinous (sticky) rice
- 1½ cups coconut milk
- ¾ to 1 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar if palm sugar is hard to find)
- 2 pandan leaves (optional, for aroma)
- A pinch of salt
- Banana leaves or parchment paper for lining (optional)
How To Make Wajik
Step 1: Clean and Cook the Rice
Start by rinsing the sticky rice in cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain it well, then steam the rice for about 30-40 minutes until soft and sticky.
Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Sugar Syrup
While the rice is cooking, heat the coconut milk, palm sugar, salt, and pandan leaves in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens a bit. Remove the pandan leaves before moving on.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Syrup
Put the steamed sticky rice into a large bowl. Pour the warm coconut sugar syrup over it and stir gently until all the rice is well coated with the sweet mixture.
Step 4: Press and Chill
Prepare a tray by lining it with banana leaves or parchment paper. Spread the sticky rice mixture evenly and press it down firmly. Allow it to cool at room temperature, then place it in the fridge to chill and set for at least an hour.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once firm, cut the wajik into your favorite shapes — diamonds or squares work great. Enjoy it as a sweet snack or dessert with a cup of tea or coffee.
Why Try This Recipe?
Wajik offers a fantastic blend of textures and flavors — sticky, creamy, sweet, and just a little bit nutty from the coconut milk. It’s easy to make with just a handful of ingredients and is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to explore Indonesian cuisine right from your own kitchen.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a little piece of Indonesia anytime you want. Can’t wait to hear what you think, Lykkers!
Happy cooking!
