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
Arahan langkah demi langkah
Langkah 1 · Prepare grass jelly (cincau) by cutting it into small cubes
Prepare grass jelly (cincau) by cutting it into small cubes. Rinse briefly under cold water and drain.
Langkah 2 · In a small pot
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.
Langkah 3 · Strain syrup to remove pandan and lemongrass
Strain syrup to remove pandan and lemongrass. Allow syrup to cool to room temperature.
Langkah 4 · Divide grass jelly cubes into two glasses
Divide grass jelly cubes into two glasses. Add ice cubes to each glass.
Langkah 5 · Pour cooled pandan syrup evenly over the grass jelly and ice
Pour cooled pandan syrup evenly over the grass jelly and ice. Stir gently.
Langkah 6 · Top with santan (coconut milk) or more water for a lighter version
Top with santan (coconut milk) or more water for a lighter version. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Langkah 7 · Serve immediately and enjoy your chilled Grass Jelly with Syrup
Serve immediately and enjoy your chilled Grass Jelly with Syrup.
Mengapa resipi 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.
Nota tentang tradisi
Grass Jelly with Syrup is a classic beverage in Malaysia, often enjoyed during Ramadan bazaars, Hari Raya, and family gatherings. It reflects Malaysia’s multicultural heritage, with roots in traditional herbal drinks consumed for their cooling effects. Cincau is popular across the Peninsula, especially in Selangor and Johor, where it’s served in various forms. The use of pandan and santan highlights local flavors and ingredients, making this drink uniquely Malaysian.