Roti Gambang Recipe (Indonesian Bread)
Roti Gambang is a cherished Indonesian bread recipe that dates back to the Dutch colonial era. Known for its warm, spiced flavor and unique texture, this traditional bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast. It also makes a delightful accompaniment to hearty soups like Israeli Couscous Minestrone Soup, perfect for dinner. Follow this recipe to bring the comforting flavors of Roti Gambang into your home.
Ingredients & Measurements
Below is a detailed table of ingredients with their respective quantities to guide your preparation.
| 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 |
| Salted Butter | 200 grams |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 3 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~35 g |
| Protein | ~4 g |
| Fat | ~8 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~5 g |
| Sodium | ~120 mg |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
Preparation Time
| Stage | Time (in Minutes) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Resting Time | 30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20–30 minutes |
| Total Time | ~70 minutes |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step directions to make perfect Roti Gambang:
-
Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- Combine the sugar (or palm sugar) and lukewarm water in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium flame, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture reaches a syrupy consistency.
- Remove the syrup from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
-
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat bread crumbs, milk powder, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon powder. Stir the ingredients well to ensure even distribution.
-
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Slowly pour in the cooled sugar syrup while kneading the dough. Knead for approximately 10 minutes to form a smooth, well-combined dough.
-
Add Butter and Rest:
- Work the softened salted butter into the dough until it is fully incorporated. Cover the bowl with cling wrap and let the dough rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to relax.
-
Shape the Dough:
- After resting, divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval shape and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
-
Prepare for Baking:
- Lightly brush water over the top of each dough piece to help the sesame seeds adhere. Sprinkle sesame seeds generously on top of each bread oval.
-
Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the Roti Gambang in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread is cooked through.
-
Serve:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the Roti Gambang with coffee or tea for a traditional Indonesian breakfast, or pair it with a comforting soup like Israeli Couscous Minestrone for dinner.
Tips for Perfect Roti Gambang
- Substitute Sugar: Palm granulated sugar enhances the authentic flavor of this bread. If available, use it instead of regular sugar for a traditional touch.
- Uniform Size: Ensure the dough portions are of equal size to allow even baking.
- Storage: Store the baked bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
Enjoy the timeless flavors of Indonesia in every bite of this aromatic and spiced bread, a perfect treat for any time of the day!
