Chifa-inspired Aluwa

Ingredients

In this Chifa-inspired version of Aluwa, we incorporate Chifa cuisine's unique spices and ingredients to give the traditional Sri Lankan dish a Peruvian-Chinese twist. The original Aluwa recipe is adapted to include Chifa-specific spices such as ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder. Additionally, we incorporate Chifa cooking techniques to enhance the flavors and textures of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Aluwa, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour
• 1 cup (200g) jaggery, grated 1 cup (200g) jaggery, grated
• 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut milk 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/2 cup (75g) roasted peanuts, chopped 1/2 cup (75g) roasted peanuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) toasted sesame seeds 1/4 cup (30g) toasted sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 15g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, grated jaggery, coconut milk, and water. Mix well until a smooth batter is formed.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the soy sauce and Chinese five-spice powder to the pan, and stir well to combine with the ginger and garlic.
4. 4.
   Pour the rice flour batter into the pan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
5. 5.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Grease a square baking dish with oil and transfer the cooked mixture into it. Press it down firmly to create an even layer.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and toasted sesame seeds over the top, gently pressing them into the mixture.
8. 8.
   Allow the Aluwa to cool completely and set for at least 2 hours.
9. 9.
   Once set, cut the Aluwa into desired shapes, such as squares or diamonds.
10. 10.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as it provides the desired chewy texture.
• Jaggery — If jaggery is not available, you can substitute it with brown sugar or palm sugar.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, you can add chopped dried fruits such as raisins or apricots to the Aluwa mixture before setting.
• To enhance the nutty flavor, toast the peanuts and sesame seeds before adding them to the Aluwa.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes when cutting the Aluwa to add visual appeal to your presentation.
• Store the Aluwa in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and texture.
• Serve the Chifa Aluwa as a delightful dessert or snack during festive occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Serving advice

Serve the Chifa Aluwa on a platter or in individual bowls. Garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Pair it with a cup of hot Chifa-style tea for a complete culinary experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Chifa Aluwa pieces in an attractive pattern on the serving platter. Consider using colorful garnishes such as edible flowers or fresh mint leaves to add a pop of color and visual appeal. Serve on traditional Chifa-inspired tableware for an authentic touch.