Desserts > Asian Desserts > Southeast Asian Desserts

Sago Coconut Balls Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup sago pearls
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the sago pearls in cold water and drain.
2. In a saucepan, combine the sago pearls, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the sago pearls become translucent.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes, then shape into small balls.
5. Roll the balls in desiccated coconut until coated.
6. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 20 balls

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 1g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use regular milk instead of coconut milk.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of white sugar.
- You can use fresh grated coconut instead of desiccated coconut.

Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for extra flavor.
- Substitute the vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture before shaping into balls.

Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the sago pearls thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- Stir the mixture constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Wet your hands with water before shaping the balls to prevent sticking.

Storage instructions:
- Store the sago coconut balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Serve the sago coconut balls chilled.

Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the balls on a platter and sprinkle with extra desiccated coconut.

Garnishes:
- Top with a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce.

Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad or mango sticky rice.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture becomes too thick, add a little more coconut milk or water.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the sago pearls thoroughly to avoid any potential digestive issues.

Food history:
- Sago pearls are a staple food in many Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia and Malaysia.

Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, creamy, and coconutty.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or snack.

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Taste: Sweet, Coconutty, Nutty, Chewy