The day began with a mission: to create a refreshing glass of Es Daluman, a traditional Balinese delight. The key ingredient? Daluman leaves, nature’s green jelly waiting to be unveiled.
First, the leaves were meticulously washed, ensuring no unwanted dirt lingered. Then came the transformation. With gentle hands, the leaves were pressed and released, releasing their vibrant green essence into a waiting bowl of water. The water took on an almost magical quality, turning a cloudy green with a hint of sliminess – a sign of the jelly taking form.
Patience became the next step. The mixture was strained, leaving behind the spent leaves. The remaining liquid was undisturbed, allowed to sit and thicken at its own pace. As minutes ticked by, the anticipation grew. Would it solidify enough for that perfect jelly texture?
The answer came soon enough. The green liquid had transformed, becoming a wobbly, translucent jelly – daluman in its purest form. Now, to create the refreshing beverage.
Santan, the fragrant coconut milk, was brought to a gentle simmer along with pandan leaves, their essence infusing the creamy liquid. Palm sugar, another Balinese treasure, was added next, dissolving and lending its sweetness. The concoction was a symphony of tropical flavors waiting to be enjoyed.
Finally, the moment of truth. The prepared daluman jelly was cut into squares, ready to meet its destiny. Glass after glass was filled with the vibrant green cubes, then the warm, comforting santan was poured over, creating a beautiful contrast. A touch of ice completed the picture, promising a cool and refreshing escape.
The first sip was a revelation. The daluman jelly, with its subtle herbal flavor, danced with the creamy sweetness of the santan. Each mouthful was a delightful blend of textures, the jelly adding a delightful chew to the smooth drink.
Es Daluman, a simple yet delightful concoction, was a testament to the magic of nature’s ingredients. With minimal effort, a taste of Bali was brought to life, a refreshing reminder of the island’s unique culinary treasures.