Thai Coconut Pancakes, known as "Khanom Khrok," are a popular and delightful street food in Thailand. They are small, coconut milk-based pancakes with a slightly crispy outer layer and a soft, custard-like center. A step-by-step guide on how to make Khanom Khrok:
Ingredients:
For the Batter:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- A pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- Fresh or frozen corn kernels (optional)
- Sliced green onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Batter:
1.1. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and a pinch of salt. Mix them well.
1.2. Making the Sugar Syrup:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the coconut milk and palm sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the palm sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove from heat.
1.3. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Slowly pour the coconut milk mixture into the bowl with the rice flour, whisking continuously to create a smooth batter. Make sure there are no lumps.
2. Preparing the Pan:
2.1. Heating the Khanom Khrok Pan:
- Khanom Khrok pans are special, round, cast-iron pans with small half-sphere molds. Heat the pan over medium heat.
2.2. Greasing the Pan:
- Grease the molds with a little oil or coconut oil using a brush or a piece of paper towel.
3. Cooking the Pancakes:
- Pour the batter into each mold, filling it about 3/4 full. You can add fresh or frozen corn kernels or sliced green onions to each mold if you like.
- Cover the pan and let the pancakes cook over low heat. They will take a few minutes to cook. You'll know they are done when the edges start to turn golden brown, and the center becomes firm.
- Carefully use a wooden skewer or fork to loosen the pancakes from the molds.
4. Serving:
- Remove the Khanom Khrok from the pan and place them on a serving plate. They should have a slightly crispy outer layer and a soft, custard-like center.
- Khanom Khrok is best enjoyed warm. You can serve them with a dipping sauce made from a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and chili flakes, or you can enjoy them on their own.
Khanom Khrok is a delightful Thai street food snack, and making them at home allows you to enjoy their unique flavors and textures. The combination of the crispy exterior and the soft, creamy interior, along with the coconut and palm sugar, creates a wonderful taste experience.