Cimol: The Popular Indonesian Street Snack

Cimol is a popular street snack that originated in Indonesia and has gained a following across the country. This savory snack is a combination of chewy tapioca flour balls and a blend of spices that is both flavorful and satisfying. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at cimol, its history, and why it has become such a beloved snack among Indonesians.

What is Cimol?

Cimol is a snack made from tapioca flour that is shaped into small balls and then deep-fried until crispy. The flour is mixed with water, salt, and spices to create a dough that is then formed into small balls before frying. Once cooked, the cimol is served hot and sprinkled with a mix of spices, such as chili powder, garlic, and salt.

History of Cimol

Cimol’s origins can be traced back to West Java, Indonesia. It was originally created as a snack that could be easily carried and eaten on the go. Over time, cimol became a popular street food, with vendors setting up small stands to sell the snack to passersby. Today, cimol is enjoyed throughout Indonesia, and can be found in markets, food courts, and on the streets.

Why is Cimol So Popular?

Cimol’s popularity can be attributed to its delicious taste and versatility. The combination of crispy, chewy texture and bold spices makes it an irresistible snack for many Indonesians. Cimol is also very affordable, making it accessible to people from all walks of life.

Another reason for cimol’s popularity is its ease of preparation. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, cimol is a snack that can be made at home or sold on the streets. This has led to the creation of many small businesses and street vendors who specialize in selling cimol.

Variations of Cimol

As cimol has grown in popularity, variations of the snack have emerged. Some vendors add cheese or other ingredients to the dough, while others serve cimol with dipping sauces or toppings. There are even sweet versions of cimol that are made with sugar and coconut milk, rather than savory spices.

recipe

Ingredients:

• 250 grams of tapioca flour
• 50 grams of wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
• 300 ml of warm water
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tapioca flour, wheat flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, coriander, cumin, black pepper, and chili powder.
2. Mix the dry ingredients together until well combined.
3. Slowly add the warm water to the mixture, stirring continuously, until a smooth dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
5. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a small ball.
6. Heat the cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Add the cimol balls to the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the cimol from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
9. Serve the cimol hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cimol is a delicious and crunchy snack that is perfect for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy this Indonesian favorite in the comfort of your own home.