Roti Gambang Recipe (Indonesian Bread Recipe)
Roti Gambang is a traditional Indonesian bread that holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its distinct flavor and texture come from the unique combination of Java red sugar, warm spices, and rich butter. This slightly sweet, golden-brown bread is perfect for breakfast, pairing beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, and can also serve as a side dish to accompany a comforting soup.
This recipe is easy to follow and will yield a soft and flavorful bread with a delightful crunchy sesame topping. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the aroma of cinnamon and the richness of butter in their baked goods. Ready to bake some Roti Gambang? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 375 grams |
| Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs | 125 grams |
| Sugar (or Palm Granulated Sugar) | 250 grams |
| Milk Powder | 25 grams |
| Lukewarm Water | 175 ml |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 2 teaspoons |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Egg Yolks | 2 |
| Butter | 200 grams |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 3 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Course: Side Dish
- Diet: Eggetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup
Start by boiling the Java red sugar with lukewarm water in a saucepan. Stir it occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture reaches a syrup-like consistency. Once it has cooled to room temperature, set it aside. If you can’t find Java red sugar, palm granulated sugar is a great alternative that will still give the bread its signature sweetness and slight molasses flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (maida), whole wheat bread crumbs, milk powder, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon powder. These ingredients will give your Roti Gambang its soft texture and delicious spiced flavor. Add the vanilla extract for an added layer of fragrance.
Step 3: Add the Egg Yolks and Sugar Syrup
Once your dry ingredients are well combined, create a well in the center and add the two egg yolks. Begin mixing the ingredients gently and then pour in the cooled sugar syrup. This combination will start to form the dough. Knead the mixture for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and cohesive.
Step 4: Incorporate the Butter
After kneading for 10 minutes, add the softened butter to the dough. Knead again until the butter is completely incorporated, and the dough becomes soft and slightly sticky. The butter will give the bread a rich, tender crumb and a golden-brown color when baked.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rest
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period will allow the yeast and baking powder to work their magic, resulting in a soft and airy texture.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Once rested, divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, and then gently shape it into an oval form. The shape can be rustic, as Roti Gambang is traditionally not perfectly round.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Place the shaped dough pieces on a greased or lined baking tray. Brush the tops lightly with water to help the sesame seeds stick. Sprinkle the sesame seeds generously on top of each piece of dough. The sesame seeds will give a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the soft bread beautifully.
Step 8: Bake the Roti Gambang
Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Place the baking tray in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of cinnamon and baking bread will fill your kitchen!
Step 9: Serve
Once baked, remove the Roti Gambang from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve this delicious bread warm with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for breakfast, or alongside a hearty soup like Israeli Couscous Minestrone for dinner.
Tips for Perfect Roti Gambang
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Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bread, feel free to add more sugar, especially if you’re using palm sugar or other natural sweeteners. The sugar syrup gives this bread a unique flavor, so you can adjust it according to your taste.
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Butter Substitute: If you’re looking to make this bread slightly lighter, you can substitute some of the butter with vegetable oil or a non-dairy butter alternative.
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Resting Time: Don’t rush the resting period. Letting the dough rest allows the flavors to meld together and results in a soft, airy texture.
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Sesame Seeds: For an extra touch, you can toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them on the dough. This adds a subtle toasted flavor and enhances the crunch.
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Storage: Store leftover Roti Gambang in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked bread and reheat in the oven before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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Breakfast Delight: Roti Gambang pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of Indonesian coffee or a sweet tea. The cinnamon-spiced bread is the perfect companion for your morning caffeine fix.
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Hearty Soup Side: For a more substantial meal, serve Roti Gambang with a bowl of soup such as the Israeli Couscous Minestrone Soup. The bread’s slightly sweet flavor complements the savory soup, making for a balanced meal.
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Snack or Light Meal: Enjoy Roti Gambang as a midday snack. It can be eaten plain or with a light spread of butter or jam.
Final Thoughts
Roti Gambang is an indulgent yet simple bread recipe that brings a little taste of Indonesia to your kitchen. Its unique blend of spices, sugar syrup, and butter makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a side to a soup, or simply as a snack, this bread is sure to satisfy your cravings. Try making this recipe at home, and enjoy the delicious, aromatic result with your loved ones!
