🇮🇩 Indonesian Cuisine · Drinks

Bir Pletok

Prep

10 mins

Cook

15 mins

Serves

4

Difficulty

Easy

A non-alcoholic Betawi heritage drink of ginger, rose syrup, and spices that turns ruby red when shaken.

Ingredients

  • 500g beef shin
  • 1 cup rice noodles
  • 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 tsp crushed candlenuts
  • 3 tbsp neutral vegetable oil
  • a generous handful of bean sprouts
  • a handful of fresh Thai basil, chopped
  • crispy fried shallots, for serving

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the jasmine rice and water in a saucepan, blender, or pitcher, stirring well.

  2. 2

    Add the coriander seeds and lime wedges, stirring gently so their flavor infuses the mixture.

  3. 3

    Heat gently over low heat (or blend, or steep, depending on the drink) until well combined and fragrant, about 15 mins.

  4. 4

    Strain through a fine sieve to remove any solids, if needed.

  5. 5

    Sweeten to taste with coconut cream, adjusting gradually until the balance feels right.

  6. 6

    Chill in the refrigerator, or pour straight over ice, depending on whether it is served cold or hot.

Tips

Serve in a chilled glass for the most refreshing result on a hot day.

Adjust the sweetness gradually, tasting as you go — you can always add more coconut cream, but you cannot take it away.