Lemper Recipe Easy and Delicious Indonesian Snack Guide

Originally posted on June 14, 2023 @ 7:40 pm

Lemper is a delightful Indonesian snack that perfectly combines fragrant, sticky glutinous rice with a savory filling, usually seasoned shredded chicken. This traditional treat is wrapped in banana leaves, which infuse a subtle aroma and make it a perfect grab-and-go snack.

Whether you’re looking to explore new flavors or impress guests with something unique, this lemper recipe is both authentic and approachable.

Making lemper at home might seem a bit challenging at first, but with the right ingredients and clear instructions, you’ll find it incredibly rewarding. The texture of the sticky rice paired with the rich, spiced chicken filling creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Plus, it’s a wonderful way to introduce Indonesian cuisine to your family and friends.

Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s explore how to make lemper step-by-step, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to elevate your snack game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemper recipe stands out because it balances traditional flavors with a straightforward preparation method. Unlike many complex recipes, it uses common pantry ingredients, making it accessible for most home cooks.

The glutinous rice is perfectly sticky yet light, and the chicken filling is richly spiced with aromatic herbs and spices like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Wrapping the lemper in banana leaves not only adds a lovely scent but also makes it portable and visually appealing.

Whether for a party, a special occasion, or just a snack, lemper is versatile and sure to impress. Plus, it stores well, so you can make a batch ahead of time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups glutinous (sticky) rice
• 1 ½ cups coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
• 3 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 300 grams chicken breast, boiled and shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 shallots, minced
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Banana leaves, cut into squares (for wrapping)
• Toothpicks (optional, for securing wraps)

Equipment

• Steamer or large pot with steaming rack
• Medium saucepan
• Frying pan or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Banana leaf folder or scissors

Instructions

1. Prepare the sticky rice: Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.
2. Cook the rice with coconut milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, salt, bruised lemongrass stalks, and torn kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is almost cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
3. Steam the rice: Transfer the partially cooked rice to a steamer basket lined with banana leaves or parchment paper. Steam for 30-40 minutes until fully cooked and sticky. Remove lemongrass and lime leaves before proceeding.
4. Prepare the filling: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and shallots until fragrant and golden brown.
5. Add shredded chicken: Stir in shredded chicken, sweet soy sauce, coriander powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld and the mixture is dry. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Assemble the lemper: Lay out a banana leaf square. Take about 3-4 tablespoons of sticky rice and flatten it on the leaf. Place 1-2 tablespoons of chicken filling in the center.
7. Wrap and seal: Fold the banana leaf over the filling, forming a rectangular shape. Press gently to compact the rice around the filling. Secure the wrap with a toothpick if necessary.
8. Final steaming: Place wrapped lemper in the steamer and steam for an additional 10-15 minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
9. Serve: Remove from steamer and let cool slightly before serving. Lemper can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“Banana leaves not only enhance flavor but also keep lemper moist during steaming. If unavailable, parchment paper can be a substitute.”

Tips:

• Soak banana leaves in hot water for a few minutes to make them pliable and easier to fold.
• Use gloves or a clean cloth when handling hot banana leaves to avoid burns.
• For extra flavor, add finely chopped candied coconut or fried shallots to the filling.

Variations:

• Beef Lemper: Substitute chicken with shredded beef cooked in similar spices.
• Vegetarian Lemper: Use seasoned mushrooms or jackfruit as a filling instead of meat.
• Spicy Lemper: Add chopped chili or sambal to the chicken filling for a spicy kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Lemper pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of Indonesian tea or coffee. You might also serve it alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a simple cucumber and chili dipping sauce for added freshness and a slight heat contrast.

For party platters, arrange lemper with other Indonesian snacks like gorengan or bakwan to create a vibrant and diverse spread that guests will love.

If you want to enjoy lemper as a light meal, serve it with a side of clear soup or some sautéed greens for balance.

Conclusion

Lemper is a beautiful representation of Indonesian culinary heritage, combining fragrant sticky rice with a savory, flavorful filling wrapped in aromatic banana leaves. This recipe brings an authentic taste of Indonesia right into your kitchen with simple ingredients and clear steps.

Whether you’re making lemper for a special occasion or a casual snack, the process is rewarding and the result delicious. The versatility of the filling and the ease of wrapping make this dish a fun project for both beginner and experienced cooks.

Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with a unique, tasty treat that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to explore other Indonesian delights on our blog for more culinary inspiration!

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