Grass Jelly with Syrup
Minuman • Malaysia
How to Make Grass Jelly with Syrup (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Grass Jelly with Syrup, known locally as 'Cincau dengan Sirap', is a beloved beverage in Malaysia, especially popular during hot afternoons and festive gatherings. This cooling drink features silky cincau (grass jelly), a plant-based ingredient derived from the Mesona chinensis plant, layered with fragrant pandan-infused syrup and finished with fresh coconut milk (santan) or just water for a lighter touch. Its roots stretch across Malaysia’s multicultural tapestry, commonly found in hawker stalls, night markets, and traditional coffee shops, making it a staple in both Malay and Chinese communities. The combination of cincau’s subtle earthiness with sweet, aromatic syrup and creamy santan creates a unique taste profile that's both refreshing and satisfying. Grass Jelly with Syrup is not only a delicious treat but also a healthy beverage option for those seeking vegetarian, low-fat, and plant-based refreshment. Its versatility means you can adapt the sweetness and richness to your dietary needs, using natural sweeteners or lighter milk alternatives. Thanks to its cooling properties, cincau is traditionally believed to help regulate body heat, making it a perfect drink for Malaysia's tropical climate. Enjoyed year-round and especially during Ramadan bazaars and family gatherings, this beverage stays true to Malaysia’s vibrant food culture and heritage.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 1 tall glass (approx. 250ml) per serving)
- 200g Grass jelly (cincau) (cut into cubes)
- 2 leaves Pandan leaves (tie into a knot)
- 4 tbsp Brown sugar (or gula Melaka (palm sugar) for authentic flavor)
- 300ml Water (for syrup)
- 100ml Santan (coconut milk) (fresh or boxed) - pilihan
- 1 cup Ice cubes (for serving)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass stalk (optional, lightly bruised for fragrance) - pilihan
- as needed Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional, for lower-calorie syrup) - pilihan
- 2-3 leaves Fresh mint leaves (optional, garnish) - pilihan
Arahan
- 1
Prepare grass jelly (cincau) by cutting it into small cubes. Rinse briefly under cold water and drain.
5 minutes
Use a sharp knife for clean cubes; ensure jelly is chilled for better texture.
- 2
In a small pot, add water, pandan leaves, brown sugar, and lemongrass. Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes until fragrant and sugar dissolves.
10 minutes
Tie pandan leaves into a knot for easy removal; do not boil vigorously to preserve aroma.
- 3
Strain syrup to remove pandan and lemongrass. Allow syrup to cool to room temperature.
5 minutes
Chill syrup in the fridge for extra refreshing taste.
- 4
Divide grass jelly cubes into two glasses. Add ice cubes to each glass.
2 minutes
Fill glasses halfway with ice to keep drink cool longer.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
This Malaysian beverage is naturally plant-based and can easily be made low-sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Grass jelly is known for its cooling properties and digestive benefits, while santan provides beneficial fats. The recipe avoids artificial colors and flavors, focusing on traditional, wholesome ingredients like pandan and lemongrass. It’s a refreshing way to hydrate and satisfy sweet cravings without excess calories.
Grass jelly is low in calories and fat, making it an excellent option for calorie-conscious individuals. It contains fiber and antioxidants from the Mesona chinensis plant. Using pandan and lemongrass adds natural fragrance without extra calories, while santan (coconut milk) provides healthy fats and essential minerals. Brown sugar or gula Melaka offers trace minerals compared to refined sugar. This beverage is gluten-free and vegetarian, and can be adapted for vegan or diabetic-friendly diets.
Petua
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh pandan leaves for the most aromatic syrup.
- 💡Tip 2: Chill grass jelly and syrup before assembling for extra coolness.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust sweetness by gradually adding syrup to taste.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store leftover grass jelly and syrup separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble drink just before serving. Do not freeze grass jelly as texture may change.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Breakfast or Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 95.0 kcal |
