Roti Jala (Lacy Coconut Crepes)

Roti jala, accompanied by a delicious Indian-style vegetable curry

Roti jala is a light coconut crepe that is usually served with curry, and is commonly found in Malaysian night markets or road-side stalls. They are so soft and smooth that it goes down very quickly and easily with the curry. I had to stop myself after eating the third one, while G didn't realise he had eaten six of them until I asked him. The "holes" in the crepe makes a difference in the texture and overall experience of eating it (really!). So, I really recommend that you get a roti jala mould (which is probably only available in Malaysia) or, perhaps try to borrow one if possible. Otherwise, get creative!

I made an Indian-style vegetable curry to go with it and it was absolutely perfect, thanks to mum for the "recipe"!

Roti Jala Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup plain flour
1/4 tsp salt
2 eggs, beaten
200ml coconut milk (I used Aroy-D canned coconut milk)
150ml water
Vegetable oil to grease

Equipment:
Roti jala mould
1 large bowl
Whisk
Measuring cup/jug
Large non-stick frying pan

Method

1. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl and make a well in the centre. Add beaten eggs and gradually whisk in the coconut milk, followed by the water. The mixture should look like a thin batter that flows through the roti jala mould in a continuous stream. Adjust the amount of water used depending on how thick or thin the coconut milk is. Use a sieve to strain the batter into a jug.
2. Heat the pan on medium heat and use a paper towel to grease the pan with a little oil.
3. Place the mould over the pan and fill it with the batter, and "draw" circular lacy designs in the pan. The crepe should be thin and lacy. When cooked (about 2 minutes) and the bottom is lightly browned, fold it into a quarter and transfer onto a plate. Grease the pan again and repeat with the remaining batter. Makes about 10 crepes. Serve with your favourite curry!

Note: As I used canned coconut milk, it does tend to be slightly thicker than fresh coconut milk. You may adjust the amount of coconut milk and water used to your preference as long as the right consistency is achieved. Test it first to make sure it flows through the mould in a continuous stream.

Roti jala mould