Tips for Making Crunchy and Tasty Peanut Crackers

Peanut crackers, also known as “peyek kacang” in Indonesia, are a traditional snack loved by many for their crispy texture and savory taste. These crackers are made from a simple mixture of rice flour, peanuts, and spices, resulting in a delicious treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a side dish. In this article, we’ll explore how to make traditional peanut crackers that are crispy and delicious, using a recipe that’s easy to follow.

Peanut Crackers

Ingredients for Crispy Peanut Crackers

To make traditional peanut crackers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup of raw peanuts: Split into halves for a more even distribution in the batter.
  • 2 cups of rice flour: This provides the base for the batter, giving the crackers their crispy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons of tapioca flour: Adds extra crispiness to the crackers.
  • 1 cup of coconut milk: For a richer, more flavorful batter.
  • 1 egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
  • 5 cloves of garlic: Finely minced or ground for added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon of coriander powder: Enhances the savory taste.
  • 1 teaspoon of salt: To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder: Adds a beautiful golden color to the crackers.
  • Water: Adjust as needed to get the right batter consistency.
  • Vegetable oil: For frying.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peanut Crackers

Preparing the Batter

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rice flour, tapioca flour, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until well-mixed.
  2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the coconut milk and egg into the dry mixture. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be smooth and thick, but not too runny. If the batter is too thick, add a little water until you reach the desired consistency.
  3. Incorporate the Garlic: Add the minced garlic into the batter, mixing well to ensure the flavor is evenly distributed.

Adding the Peanuts

  1. Prepare the Peanuts: Split the peanuts into halves. This helps them cook evenly in the batter.
  2. Combine Peanuts with Batter: Gently fold the peanuts into the batter. Make sure that each peanut is coated with the batter, but don’t overmix, as you want the peanuts to remain evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Frying the Peanut Crackers

  1. Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that the batter sizzles when dropped in, but not too hot to avoid burning.
  2. Fry the Crackers: Using a spoon or ladle, carefully pour a small amount of batter into the hot oil. Spread it thinly to form a round cracker shape. Fry the batter until the edges start to turn golden brown, then flip it over to cook the other side. Each cracker should be cooked until crispy and golden.
  3. Drain the Oil: Once the crackers are fully cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
  4. Cool the Crackers: Allow the crackers to cool completely before serving. This ensures they maintain their crispiness.

 

Serving and Storing Peanut Crackers

Serving Suggestions

Traditional peanut crackers are incredibly versatile. They can be served as:

  • Snacks: Enjoy them on their own as a light, crispy snack.
  • Side Dish: Pair them with rice, soups, or main dishes to add a crunchy texture to your meal.
  • Toppings: Crumble them over salads or stir-fries for an extra crunch.

Storing Peanut Crackers

To keep your peanut crackers crispy, store them in an airtight container once they have completely cooled. They can last for up to two weeks when stored properly. Avoid exposing them to moisture, as this will make them lose their crispiness.

 

Tips for Making Perfect Peanut Crackers

Keep the Batter Consistent

The consistency of the batter is key to making perfect peanut crackers. If the batter is too thick, the crackers will be dense and may not cook evenly. If it’s too thin, the peanuts might not stick well to the batter.

Control the Frying Temperature

Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the crackers will brown too quickly on the outside but remain undercooked on the inside. If the oil is not hot enough, the crackers will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

 

Traditional peanut crackers are a delightful snack that’s easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create crispy, flavorful crackers that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or as part of a meal, these peanut crackers are sure to become a favorite in your household. So, why not try making a batch today? Enjoy the taste of tradition with every crispy bite!

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