How to Make Black Grass Jelly with Sugar (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Black Grass Jelly with Sugar, known locally as 'Cincau Hitam', is a classic Malaysian beverage enjoyed across all communities for its refreshing and cooling properties. This beloved drink is especially popular during hot afternoons or festive gatherings, offering a delightful blend of silky grass jelly cubes and lightly sweetened syrup. The dish is rooted in Chinese-Malaysian heritage but has become a staple in hawker centers and homes throughout the country, symbolizing Malaysia’s rich multicultural food landscape. The taste of cincau hitam is subtle, slightly herbal, and mildly sweet, making it incredibly versatile. In Malaysia, it's common to serve this beverage with a drizzle of pandan-infused syrup or a splash of santan (coconut milk) for extra flavor. Its simplicity, ease of preparation, and use of local ingredients like pandan leaves, lemongrass, and gula Melaka (palm sugar) make Black Grass Jelly with Sugar a great choice for anyone seeking a healthy, thirst-quenching treat that fits seamlessly into a balanced diet. The dish’s low calorie content and natural ingredients cater to both the health-conscious and those looking for a traditional taste of Malaysia.
Ingredients
- 200g Grass jelly block (cincau hitam) (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons Gula Melaka (palm sugar) (shaved or chopped)
- 300ml Water (for syrup and serving)
- 1 leaf Pandan leaf (tied into a knot)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass stalk (bruised)
- 1 cup Ice cubes (for serving)
- 1 teaspoon Low-calorie sweetener (optional, for reduced sugar)
- 2 tablespoons Santan (coconut milk) (for topping, optional)
- a few Mint leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the syrup by combining gula Melaka
Prepare the syrup by combining gula Melaka, water, pandan leaf, and lemongrass in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 2 · Remove the pandan leaf and lemongrass
Remove the pandan leaf and lemongrass. Set the syrup aside to cool to room temperature.
Step 3 · Slice the grass jelly block into bite-sized cubes or strips as pref...
Slice the grass jelly block into bite-sized cubes or strips as preferred.
Step 4 · Divide the grass jelly cubes evenly into serving glasses
Divide the grass jelly cubes evenly into serving glasses.
Step 5 · Pour the cooled syrup over the grass jelly in each glass
Pour the cooled syrup over the grass jelly in each glass. Top up with additional cold water if needed.
Step 6 · Optional: Drizzle santan over the top for a creamy twist
Optional: Drizzle santan over the top for a creamy twist, and garnish with mint leaves.
Step 7 · Serve immediately while cold
Serve immediately while cold. Stir before drinking to combine flavors.
Why this recipe is healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it utilizes plant-based ingredients, is low in calories, and can be adapted for reduced sugar intake. Grass jelly aids digestion and keeps you hydrated, making it a smart option for weight management. Using gula Melaka over refined sugar adds a natural caramel sweetness with a lower glycemic index. The recipe is free from artificial additives and can be made vegan-friendly.
A note on tradition
Cincau Hitam is a cherished beverage in Malaysia, enjoyed especially during festive occasions like Chinese New Year and Hari Raya, though it's available year-round at local kopitiams and night markets. Its roots in the Chinese-Malaysian community have spread nationwide, making it a symbol of unity in Malaysia’s multicultural cuisine. The use of local ingredients like pandan and gula Melaka speaks to the Malaysian love for natural flavors and traditional preparation methods.