
Popia Sira dengan Ikan Bilis
Makan Tengah Hari • Malaysia
How to Make Popia Sira with Anchovies (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Popia Sira with Anchovies is a beloved Malaysian street snack that brings together the multicultural flavors of the country. Originating from Malay and Peranakan kitchens, this dish features crispy popia (spring rolls) glazed with a sweet, spicy, and tangy 'sira' sauce and topped with crunchy ikan bilis (anchovies). It’s a popular choice during Ramadan bazaars and festive gatherings, but equally enjoyed as a wholesome lunch or light snack. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic local herbs like daun bawang (spring onion), and the deep umami of ikan bilis makes Popia Sira a true reflection of Malaysian culinary diversity. The use of sambal, a spicy chili paste, and a hint of gula Melaka (palm sugar) in the sauce balances heat and sweetness, while the anchovies add a signature crunch. This healthy version uses minimal oil and loads up on fiber-rich veggies, making it a guilt-free indulgence for those tracking calories. Perfect for busy lunches or gatherings, Popia Sira with Anchovies showcases the harmony of taste and nutrition, using local ingredients readily available in any Malaysian pasar (market). It’s proof that Malaysian comfort food can be both delicious and health-conscious.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 3 popia rolls per person)
- 6 sheets Popia (spring roll) wrappers (available at Malaysian markets)
- 1 medium, julienned Carrot (lobak merah)
- 1 cup, julienned Jicama (sengkuang)
- 1/2 cup Bean sprouts (taugeh)
- 2 stalks, sliced Spring onion (daun bawang)
- 2 tablespoons, rinsed and fried Anchovies (ikan bilis)
- 1, finely sliced Red chili (cili merah) - pilihan
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic (bawang putih)
- 1 tablespoon, grated Gula Melaka (palm sugar) (for sira sauce)
- 1 tablespoon Light soy sauce (kicap cair)
- 1 tablespoon Tamarind juice (air asam jawa)
- 1 tablespoon Cooking oil (for brushing and frying)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Arahan
- 1
Prepare the filling by heating half the oil in a non-stick pan. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add carrots, jicama, and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until just tender. Season with a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and let cool.
5 minutes
Avoid overcooking the vegetables to retain crunch and nutrients.
- 2
Lay a popia wrapper on a flat surface. Place 2 tablespoons of vegetable filling and some spring onion at one end. Roll tightly, folding in the sides to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
5 minutes
Use a dab of water to seal the edges for a tight roll.
- 3
Lightly brush the popia rolls with oil. Air-fry or bake at 180°C for 10 minutes until golden and crispy, turning once for even browning.
10 minutes
Air-frying significantly reduces oil compared to deep-frying.
- 4
Prepare the sira sauce: In a small pan, combine gula Melaka, soy sauce, tamarind juice, and sliced red chili. Simmer on low heat until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
3 minutes
Stir constantly to prevent the sauce from burning.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
By air-frying or baking instead of deep-frying, this Popia Sira is lighter and lower in calories. The generous use of local vegetables increases satiety and nutrient density without compromising on taste. Anchovies provide essential minerals and lean protein, making this dish a balanced meal for lunch. The flavorful sira sauce uses natural sweeteners and is portion-controlled, ensuring you get all the Malaysian taste without excess sugar or fat.
This Popia Sira with Anchovies recipe is packed with fresh vegetables, providing fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants crucial for gut health and immunity. The ikan bilis adds a natural source of protein and calcium, while the use of minimal oil reduces overall fat content. Gula Melaka offers a natural, lower GI sweetness compared to refined sugar, and tamarind juice adds vitamin C and beneficial plant compounds. The dish is naturally low in saturated fats and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy option suitable for calorie-conscious eaters.
Petua
- 💡Tip 1: For extra crisp, let the popia cool on a wire rack after baking or air-frying.
- 💡Tip 2: Fry the ikan bilis just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- 💡Tip 3: Prepare the sira sauce ahead and store in the fridge; reheat gently before serving.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store leftover popia rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness before drizzling with sauce and anchovies.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Breakfast or Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 130.0 kcal |





