What is Lapet? A Delicious Snack from Sumatra
If you are looking for a sweet and satisfying snack that is easy to make and rich in flavor, you might want to try lapet. Lapet is a traditional snack from Sumatra, Indonesia, that consists of sticky rice, coconut, and palm sugar wrapped in banana leaves. It has a chewy texture and a caramel-like taste that will make you crave for more.
lapet
The Origin and History of Lapet
Lapet is believed to have originated from the Batak ethnic group in North Sumatra. According to one legend, lapet was invented by a man named Musik Sihombing in 1940, who wanted to create a simple and filling food for his family during the Japanese occupation. He mixed some leftover rice with coconut and palm sugar, wrapped it in banana leaves, and cooked it over a fire. He was surprised by how delicious it turned out, and he named it lapet, which means "to wrap" in Batak language.
Another version of the story claims that lapet was already a common food among the Batak people long before the colonial era. It was often served as a ceremonial dish during weddings, funerals, and other occasions. Lapet was also considered as a symbol of prosperity and gratitude, as it was made from abundant and cheap ingredients that were easily available in the region.
How Lapet is Made
The main ingredients of lapet are glutinous rice (also known as sticky rice or ketan), grated coconut, palm sugar (also known as gula merah or gula aren), and banana leaves. The rice is soaked in water for several hours, then drained and mixed with some salt. The coconut is grated and squeezed to extract the milk, which is then boiled with the palm sugar until thickened. The banana leaves are washed and cut into rectangular pieces.
To make lapet, a small amount of rice is placed on a piece of banana leaf, then flattened and shaped into a rectangle. A spoonful of coconut-palm sugar mixture is spread over the rice, leaving some space at the edges. The banana leaf is then folded over the rice and secured with toothpicks or bamboo skewers. The lapets are then steamed for about 20 minutes until cooked.
The Varieties and Flavors of Lapet
Lapet can be made with different variations and flavors, depending on the preference and creativity of the maker. Some common variations are:
Lapet beras: This is the basic version of lapet, made with white glutinous rice.
Lapet ketan hitam: This is made with black glutinous rice, which gives a darker color and a nuttier flavor.
Lapet ubi: This is made with sweet potato or cassava, which adds more sweetness and starchiness.
Lapet pisang: This is made with banana slices or mashed banana, which adds more fruitiness and moisture.
Lapet durian: This is made with durian pulp or paste, which adds more creaminess and aroma.
Besides these variations, lapet can also be flavored with other ingredients such as pandan leaves, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, or chocolate chips.
A small lap, flap, or loosely hanging part, especially of a garment or headdress[^2^]
A projecting, lobelike structure in certain invertebrate animals or a wattle on a bird's head[^2^]
A traditional snack from Sumatra, Indonesia, made from rice, sticky rice, or a combination of both, filled with brown sugar and coconut[^3^]
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The Nutritional Benefits of Lapet
Lapet is not only delicious but also nutritious. It provides energy, carbohydrates, fiber, protein, fat, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. It can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels; improve digestion and bowel movement; prevent anemia; boost immunity How to Enjoy Lapet
Lapet is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some tips on how to make the most of this delicious treat:
Where to Find Lapet
Lapet is widely available in Sumatra, especially in North Sumatra, where it is considered as a specialty. You can find lapet in traditional markets, street stalls, or snack shops. You can also order lapet online from various sellers who offer delivery services. If you want to make your own lapet, you can buy the ingredients from grocery stores or Asian markets.
How to Serve Lapet
Lapet can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference. Some people like to eat lapet as it is, while others like to add some toppings or sauces. Some common accompaniments for lapet are:
Coconut cream: This adds more richness and creaminess to the lapet.
Grated cheese: This adds more saltiness and cheesiness to the lapet.
Chocolate sauce: This adds more sweetness and chocolatey flavor to the lapet.
Fresh fruits: This adds more freshness and juiciness to the lapet.
Ice cream: This adds more coldness and smoothness to the lapet.
Lapet can also be served as a dessert or a snack, depending on the occasion and the portion size. Lapet can be cut into bite-sized pieces or sliced into larger pieces. Lapet can also be shaped into balls, rolls, or triangles for a more fun presentation.
How to Store Lapet
Lapet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To store lapet, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. To reheat lapet, you can either steam it, microwave it, or bake it until warm.
Conclusion
Lapet is a delicious snack from Sumatra that is made of sticky rice, coconut, and palm sugar wrapped in banana leaves. It has a chewy texture and a caramel-like taste that will make you crave for more. Lapet has a long history and a rich culture behind it, as well as various variations and flavors. Lapet is also nutritious and easy to make and enjoy. If you are looking for a sweet and satisfying treat that will delight your taste buds, you should definitely try lapet.
FAQs
What does lapet taste like?
Lapet tastes like a combination of sticky rice, coconut, and palm sugar. It has a chewy texture and a caramel-like flavor that is sweet and rich.
Is lapet vegan?
Lapet is vegan, as it does not contain any animal products. However, some people may add non-vegan toppings or sauces to their lapet, such as cheese or chocolate.
Is lapet gluten-free?
Lapet is gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat or other grains that contain gluten. However, some people may have an allergy or intolerance to rice or other ingredients in lapet.
How many calories are in lapet?
The calorie content of lapet may vary depending on the ingredients and the portion size. However, one piece of lapet (about 50 grams) may have around 150 calories.
What are some other names for lapet?
Lapet may also be called by other names in different regions or languages, such as lepet, lemang, ketupat, or kue bugis.
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