TIMES JAZIRAH, JAKARTA – Though Halloween has been past, many are still having some pieces of pumpkin left over in their refrigerator. As we all know, those who celebrate this festive will need dozens of pumpkin to be carved into lantern or just to use as their decoration. And we could turn the left over into Kolak Pumpkin.

While traditional treats like candies and chocolates dominate the scene, there's a unique way to celebrate Halloween with a touch of Indonesian flavor – such as "Kolak Pumpkin". This delightful dish not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also introduces a different cultural twist to your Halloween festivities.

What is Kolak?

Kolak literally is stewed ingredients in savoury and thick coconut milk. It is a popular Indonesian dessert that is typically served during various celebrations and festivities, or in the rainy season. It is a sweet, spiced dish made with a combination of fruits, root vegetables, and sometimes grains, cooked in palm sugar and coconut milk.

The key ingredients include bananas, sweet potatoes, and cassava, creating a deliciously sweet and fragrant dessert. However, pumpkin alone will make a good taste itself. Some will make it as appetizers and some will have it for dessert. 

Here, we will guide you to create an otstanding taste of kolak pumpkin, you may added the extra ingredients like banana or sweet potatoes, or not. All depends on what ready to use in your kitchen or your favor.

Kolak Pumpkin Recipe

To create the perfect Kolak Pumpkin for your Halloween celebration, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 small pumpkin, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 200 grams of sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 100 grams of palm sugar, grated (adjust to taste)
• 200 ml of coconut milk
• A pinch of salt
• Pandan leaves (optional, for added fragrance)
• Ginger (Smashed)

Instructions:

1. In a pot, combine the coconut milk, grated palm sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the palm sugar dissolves.
2. Add the pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and pandan leaves (if using) to the pot. Simmer the mixture until the fruits and vegetables are tender, typically around 15-20 minutes.
3. Once the pumpkin and sweet potatoes are cooked, add the sliced bananas to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the bananas are softened but not mushy.
4. Remove the pot from heat and let the Kolak Pumpkin cool slightly before serving.
5. Serve the Kolak Pumpkin warm in individual bowls, and enjoy this unique and flavorful Halloween treat.

Why Kolak Pumpkin for Halloween?

Choosing Kolak Pumpkin for your Halloween celebration adds a cultural and flavorful touch to the festivities. The sweetness of the palm sugar, the creaminess of the coconut milk, and the natural sweetness of the fruits create a harmonious blend that will surely delight your taste buds.

The vibrant orange color of the pumpkin adds a festive and seasonal element to your Halloween spread.

Next Halloween, you could surprise your guests and family with a unique treat that goes beyond the usual spooky snacks. Or just turn the leftover pumpkin in your fridge into this magnificent dessert for your family.

Kolak Pumpkin brings the warmth of Indonesian tradition to your celebration, making it a memorable and culturally rich experience. So, gather around, share the sweetness, and enjoy a different kind of Halloween treat with this dish. (*)