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| Spicy and Hollow Cimol Recipe |
Cimol is a legendary street food from West Java, Indonesia, made from tapioca starch. It has a chewy, savory, and simple texture, but it can be adapted into various modern flavors. One of the most popular variations among spice lovers is the spicy hollow cimol.
Unlike regular cimol, this version is hollow on the inside, creating a unique crispy sensation when you take a bite. Especially when coated in a savory and spicy seasoning, the taste is truly tantalizing. Not only is it a perfect casual snack, but spicy hollow cimol can also be a trendy culinary business idea with a small startup cost.
In this article, I will share a complete and detailed recipe on how to make spicy hollow cimol that is crispy, doesn't burst when fried, and of course, has an addictive spicy flavor.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Cimol Dough:
- 250 grams tapioca starch (also known as aci)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp fine salt
- ½ tsp bouillon powder (chicken or beef, to your preference)
- ¼ tsp ground pepper
- 180 ml boiling hot water
For the Spicy Dry Seasoning:
- 3 tbsp chili powder (adjust to your desired spice level)
- 1 tsp fine granulated sugar
- ½ tsp fine salt
- ½ tsp bouillon powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for a stronger aroma)
For Frying:
- Enough cooking oil (use fresh oil for a crispier and more fragrant result).
How to Make Spicy Hollow Cimol
1. Making the Cimol Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the tapioca starch, all-purpose flour, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and bouillon powder.
- Pour in the boiling hot water a little at a time while stirring with a wooden spatula.
- Once the dough is cool enough to handle, knead it by hand until it is smooth and pliable. The dough should be firm enough to be shaped but not too soft.
2. Shaping the Cimol Balls
- Take a small piece of dough and roll it into a small ball, about the size of a marble.
- Try to make them uniform in size so they cook evenly.
- Lightly grease your hands with a little oil to prevent the dough from sticking.
3. Frying with the Hollow Technique
- Place the raw cimol balls into a wok or pan filled with cool or lukewarm oil (the oil should not be hot yet).
- Turn on the heat to low, allowing the cimol to submerge and slowly expand.
- Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
- Once the cimol has expanded and the inside has become hollow, increase the heat slightly.
- Fry until the outer skin is dry and crispy, but don't overcook, or they will become hard.
- Remove from the oil and drain.
4. Seasoning with Spicy Flavor
- Place the fried cimol into a container with a lid.
- Add the mixture of chili powder, salt, sugar, bouillon powder, and garlic powder.
- Shake the container until the seasoning coats the entire surface of the cimol evenly.
- Serve warm for the ultimate crispy and spicy experience.
Chef's Tips for Perfect Hollow Cimol
- Never add cimol to hot oil. This is the main reason they often burst. Always start with cool or lukewarm oil over low heat.
- Smaller is safer. The smaller the cimol balls, the easier it is for them to become hollow and the less likely they are to burst.
- Use gradual heat. Start on low, and then increase to medium once the cimol starts to puff up.
- Dry seasoning is more practical. However, if you prefer a "wet" spicy style, you can toss the fried cimol in a sweet and spicy chili sauce instead.
The Uniqueness of Spicy Hollow Cimol
Spicy hollow cimol has its own special appeal. Its hollow texture allows the spicy seasoning to cling better to the surface, creating a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory-spicy flavor. Furthermore, this snack is inexpensive, the ingredients are easy to find, and it can be sold at an affordable price while still being profitable.
It's no wonder that many street vendors and modern culinary entrepreneurs make spicy hollow cimol their star menu item.
Happy cooking!
This spicy hollow cimol recipe is proof that traditional snacks can be transformed into modern treats that are just as appealing as packaged snacks. With a simple technique and a flavorful spicy coating, anyone can make cimol that is crispy, spicy, and addictive.
It’s perfect for family gatherings, movie nights, or even as a home-based culinary business opportunity.
Are you ready to try making this spicy hollow cimol at home? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the crispy, spicy sensation!
