Chinese Indonesian Gemberbolus

Ingredients

In this Chinese Indonesian adaptation of the Gemberbolus, we incorporate Chinese Indonesian flavors and spices to give it a unique twist. The original Dutch Gemberbolus is typically made with a simple dough and filled with a sweet ginger filling. However, in this version, we infuse the dough with aromatic spices commonly used in Chinese Indonesian cuisine, such as cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Additionally, we enhance the ginger filling with a touch of soy sauce and chili for an added depth of flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Gemberbolus, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce 1 tablespoon chili sauce
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) chopped almonds 1/4 cup (50g) chopped almonds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 29g, 12g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
2. 2.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, grated ginger, chili sauce, brown sugar, and chopped almonds to create the filling.
5. 5.
   Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape on a lightly floured surface.
6. 6.
   Spread the ginger filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. 7.
   Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
8. 8.
   Cut the log into individual rolls, approximately 1 inch thick.
9. 9.
   Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each roll.
10. 10.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes.
11. 11.
    Bake the Gemberbolus in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. 12.
    Allow the Gemberbolus to cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ginger — Make sure to use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Peel the ginger before grating it to remove any tough skin.
• Soy sauce — Opt for a high-quality soy sauce to enhance the savory flavor of the filling.
• Chili sauce — Adjust the amount of chili sauce according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier kick or reduce it for a milder taste.
• Almonds — Toast the chopped almonds before adding them to the filling for a nuttier flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a sweeter version, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the Gemberbolus before serving.
• Serve the Gemberbolus warm with a cup of Chinese tea or Indonesian coffee for an authentic experience.
• If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, increase the amount of grated ginger in the filling.
• Experiment with different nuts such as cashews or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• These Gemberbolus can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese Indonesian Gemberbolus as a delightful snack or dessert. They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a hot cup of Chinese tea or Indonesian coffee for a truly satisfying experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Gemberbolus on a serving platter, allowing their golden brown color to shine. Sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of ginger as a garnish for a visually appealing presentation.