How to Make Thai-Style Rice Pancakes

Thai-style rice pancakes, known as 'Kanom Krok,' are a delightful treat that blends the textures of crispiness and creaminess. These savory-sweet bites are perfect as a snack or dessert. In this article, you'll find a detailed guide on how to make Thai-style rice pancakes right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make Thai-style rice pancakes, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup of rice flour
1 cup of coconut milk
½ cup of water
1 teaspoon of salt
1 tablespoon of sugar (optional for sweetness)
Chopped green onions or herbs (for garnish)
Non-stick oil or butter (for cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Mix well until you achieve a smooth batter. The mixture should be slightly thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more water or coconut milk to reach the desired consistency.

2. Heat the Pan

Traditionally, a special cast-iron pan with small round molds is used for making Kanom Krok. If you don’t have one, a non-stick frying pan works just fine. Heat the pan over medium heat and lightly grease each mold with oil or butter to prevent the pancakes from sticking.

3. Pour the Batter

Once the pan is hot, carefully pour the batter into each mold, filling them about ¾ full. Allow the batter to spread out naturally. If you’re using a regular frying pan, just pour small circles of batter.

4. Add Toppings

You can enhance your Thai-style rice pancakes by adding toppings. A popular choice is a sprinkle of chopped green onions or herbs right after you pour in the batter. You can also add sweet corn or shredded coconut for a more traditional touch.

5. Cook the Pancakes

Cover the pan with a lid and allow the pancakes to steam and cook for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges pull away from the mold and the surface appears set and slightly firm.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the rice pancakes from the mold using a small spoon or spatula. They should come out easily if you’ve greased the molds properly. Serve the Kanom Krok warm, either plain or with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk on top for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Thai-Style Rice Pancakes

For a richer taste, use full-fat coconut milk.
Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.
Make sure your pan is hot enough before pouring in the batter for optimal cooking.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; reheat before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Thai-style rice pancakes at any time of the day! Creating this simple yet delicious dish can transport your taste buds to Thailand in just a few steps.