PenangTime.com: Recipe Guide
APOM MANIS
Authentic home-style preparation with local flair
CHEF'S SNAPSHOT
This recipe reflects Penang's vibrant street heritage. Master heat control, prep everything first, and work with confidence for authentic flavour that captures the soul of Malaysian cuisine.
Have all ingredients within reach for speed and smooth execution.
High heat brings depth and the signature "wok hei" — don't over-stir.
Follow the sequence — timing and order shape perfect results.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking. Quality ingredients make all the difference. If an ingredient has no measurement, the amount is up to your discretion.
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp instant yeast
- a pinch of salt.
Method
Follow each stage deliberately. Technique and timing shape the final texture, aroma and depth of flavour.
- Make the Batter: In a bowl, mix the rice flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and coconut milk together.
- Combine and Rest: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until you have a smooth batter. Cover and let the batter rest for at least 1 hour.
- Cook the Apom: Heat a small wok or a special apom pan over low heat. Pour a small ladle of batter into the center of the pan.
- Swirl and Cook: Swirl the pan to spread the batter up the sides, creating a thin, crispy edge with a soft, thick center.
- Cover and Steam: Cover the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the center is cooked through. There is no need to flip it.
- Serve: Gently remove the apom from the pan. It should be crispy on the edges and soft in the middle. Serve immediately.
Insider Tips
Expert advice to elevate your cooking and achieve authentic restaurant-quality results.
- A well-rested batter is key to a light and fluffy texture.
- Traditionally, apom is cooked in a small claypot or wok, which gives it its characteristic shape.
- Cooking over low heat is important to prevent the bottom from burning before the center is cooked.
Tried this recipe?
Head over to the food guide page to discover top spots serving authentic Apom Manis in Penang and compare flavour profiles.