There’s something truly delightful about the first bite of Kanom Krok; the delicate crispiness on the outside gives way to a soft, creamy filling that’s a heavenly blend of coconut and sweetness. I discovered this Thai treat during a trip to a local market, captivated by the vendors skillfully pouring batter into tiny molds, the fragrant steam swirling around them like an invitation to indulge.
This is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. With minimal effort and just a handful of components, you can recreate this beloved street food in your kitchen, satisfying cravings for something both traditional and comforting. Assembling these sweet coconut pancakes is a joyous journey, perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends.
So whether you’re looking for a tempting snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert for your next gathering, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Kanom Krok that will transport your taste buds straight to Southeast Asia!
Why is Kanom Krok so irresistible?
Delightful flavors: The sweet coconut filling combined with the crispy exterior creates a unique taste experience that’s hard to resist.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and just a few ingredients, anyone can master this Thai delicacy!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for sharing, Kanom Krok is sure to impress family and friends at your next gathering.
Versatile toppings: Customize with green onions or your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
Quick to make: In just under an hour, you can whip up a delicious batch to enjoy!
Kanom Krok Ingredients
Get ready to create these delightful coconut pancakes with this simple ingredient list!
For the Batter
- 10 oz rice flour – This is the main ingredient that gives Kanom Krok its soft and chewy texture.
- 4 1/4 cups water – Helps to achieve the right consistency for the batter.
- just under 1/4 cup coconut milk – Adds a rich tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the rice flour.
- 1/2 cup palm sugar – Imparts a unique sweetness. Feel free to substitute with brown sugar for a similar taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the batter.
For the Coconut Filling
- 1 2/3 cups coconut milk – Adds creaminess and is essential for that signature Kanom Krok flavor.
- 2 tbsp white sugar – Balances the richness of the coconut milk.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Ensures a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the filling.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to embark on your Kanom Krok-making adventure!
How to Make Kanom Krok
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Combine the water and rice flour in a large mixing bowl. Allow the mixture to rest for 20 minutes. This step helps hydrate the flour and achieve a smooth batter.
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Knead the mixture until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps. This ensures a lovely texture in your Kanom Krok that melts in your mouth.
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Mix in the coconut milk, palm sugar, and salt. Continue kneading until the palm sugar dissolves completely, adding a lovely sweetness to the batter.
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Prepare the filling by whisking together the coconut milk, white sugar, and salt in another bowl until smooth. This filling will bring extra creaminess to each pancake.
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Preheat your pan over medium heat if using a stovetop or over charcoal for a cast iron option. Ensure it’s hot enough to sizzle when you add the batter.
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Brush a light layer of oil into each mold of your pan. Stir the batter again and fill each mold about two-thirds full, starting from the outer edge.
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Spoon the coconut filling on top of each mold once the batter is in. This creates that glorious creamy center we all adore in Kanom Krok.
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Sprinkle with chopped green onions or your favorite toppings over each pancake for added flavor and texture.
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Cover the pan with a lid, if possible, to trap the heat. This helps the pancakes cook evenly, giving them a crispy bottom and a well-set filling.
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Lift the Kanom Krok out of the pan gently using a small spoon. Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful flavors fresh off the heat!
Optional: Try adding sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Kanom Krok
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Room Temperature: Keep Kanom Krok at room temperature for up to 1 day in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
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Fridge: Store leftover Kanom Krok in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Kanom Krok for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag with parchment paper between layers.
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Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, allowing that delightful crispy texture to return!
What to Serve with Kanom Krok?
Savoring these delightful pancakes is just the beginning! Here are some tasty pairings to elevate your meal experience.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: The chewy texture balances the crispy Kanom Krok, making each bite a tropical delight.
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Fresh Mango Slices: Juicy, sweet mango adds a refreshing burst to complement the rich coconut flavor, enhancing your palate.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: A zesty chili sauce provides a bold contrast, offering an unexpected kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
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Thai Iced Tea: Creamy and sweet, this beloved drink amplifies the tropical notes in Kanom Krok, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: Bright colors and fresh flavors add a vibrant touch, making your meal feel fresh and invigorating.
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Crispy Fried Tofu: The savory crunch of tofu serves as a delightful contrast, providing a heartier element to balance the sweetness of the pancakes.
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Banana Coconut Smoothie: Silky and sweet, this smoothie brings a luscious finish while echoing the flavors of Kanom Krok for a well-rounded treat.
Kanom Krok Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on these beloved coconut pancakes, adding a little flair to each batch!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for all dairy ingredients, enhancing the coconut flavor while keeping it completely plant-based.
Get ready to revel in the richness of this swapped ingredient! -
Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of palm sugar for a different flavor profile and a slight variation in sweetness.
Embrace the change—these sweeteners offer a delightful twist that still captures the essence of the original. -
Savory Twist: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or corn into the batter for a fun, savory take on Kanom Krok.
These colorful additions bring texture and a burst of flavor, perfect for those eyeing a savory snack! -
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili powder or sriracha to the coconut filling for a surprising heat that pleases spice lovers.
This fiery alteration balances the sweetness beautifully, creating an exciting flavor experience. -
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts such as peanuts or toasted coconut flakes for a crunchy texture that complements each pancake.
These additions provide delightful surprises in every bite, making your Kanom Krok truly unforgettable! -
Fruit Filled: Toss in some diced mango or banana with the filling for a fruity burst with each indulgent mouthful.
Experience tropical vibes with these sweet additions; they meld exquisitely with the creamy coconut base. -
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like mint or basil into the batter for a refreshing and aromatic twist.
This unique flavor profile will elevate your Kanom Krok and leave your guests guessing about that mysterious zing! -
Colorful Variants: Use pandan extract to color the batter green and add a subtle flavor twist that’s both visually appealing and unique.
This variation is not just a feast for the palate—your plate will be vibrant and enticing, capturing attention at any gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Kanom Krok are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and the coconut filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the water and rice flour, let it rest, then knead in the coconut milk, palm sugar, and salt. For the filling, whisk together the coconut milk, white sugar, and salt in a separate bowl. Store both mixtures in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the batter slightly, fill the molds as directed, and top with the filling before cooking. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, delicious Kanom Krok with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights much easier!
Tips for the Best Kanom Krok
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Rest the Batter: Allowing the batter to sit for 20 minutes ensures smoothness, preventing lumps that can affect your Kanom Krok’s texture.
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Control the Heat: A medium heat is crucial to avoid burning the pancakes. If using cast iron, find the right temperature to achieve that perfect crisp.
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Oil the Molds: A light brushing of oil in each mold helps in releasing the pancakes easily, preventing them from sticking and maintaining their lovely shape.
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Layering Technique: Fill molds two-thirds full with batter, then spoon in the coconut filling only afterward to keep them balanced and delicious.
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Use a Lid: Covering the pan while cooking keeps the heat trapped, ensuring even cooking and helping the filling set perfectly inside the Kanom Krok.
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Serve Warm: These delightful treats are best enjoyed fresh and warm, allowing you to savor their crispy and creamy textures!
Kanom Krok Recipe FAQs
What type of rice flour should I use for Kanom Krok?
You should use regular rice flour, as it provides the ideal texture and flavor for Kanom Krok. Avoid glutinous rice flour, which is too sticky and will not yield the desired results.
How should I store leftover Kanom Krok?
For optimal freshness, store leftover Kanom Krok in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Can I freeze Kanom Krok?
Absolutely! To freeze Kanom Krok, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually first. After they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What toppings can I use on Kanom Krok?
You can get creative with your toppings! Chopped green onions are traditional, adding a savory touch. Alternatively, try shredded coconut, sesame seeds, or even fruits like mango for a refreshing twist!
How can I troubleshoot if my Kanom Krok is too chewy?
If your Kanom Krok turns out chewy, it may be due to over-kneading the batter or not allowing the rice flour to hydrate properly. Ensure you knead just until smooth and always let the batter rest for the full 20 minutes to achieve that perfect texture.
Are Kanom Krok suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Kanom Krok can be made gluten-free as rice flour is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the other ingredients, like coconut milk and palm sugar, are also certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Delicious Kanom Krok: A Sweet Coconut Delight Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the water and rice flour in a large mixing bowl. Allow to rest for 20 minutes.
- Knead the mixture until completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Mix in the coconut milk, palm sugar, and salt. Knead until palm sugar dissolves.
- Prepare the filling by whisking coconut milk, white sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Preheat your pan over medium heat.
- Brush a light layer of oil into each mold of your pan.
- Fill each mold about two-thirds full with batter and spoon the coconut filling on top.
- Sprinkle with green onions or your favorite toppings.
- Cover the pan with a lid to trap heat while cooking.
- Lift the Kanom Krok out of the pan gently and serve warm.
