Authentic Lepet from Java — traditional Indonesian snack with step-by-step cooking instructions

Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

Lepet is a traditional Indonesian snack made from glutinous rice mixed with coconut milk and peanuts, wrapped in young coconut leaves (janur) and boiled for several hours. The result is a sticky, savoury rice cake with a distinct aroma from the coconut leaves. It is particularly popular during religious celebrations.

🗺️ Origin: Java⏱ Time: 180 mins👥 Servings: 20 wraps📊 Difficulty: Medium
📋 Recipe
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Tested by NusantaraEats Kitchen·Last updated: 29 June 2026

📑 In This Guide

🛒 Ingredients👨‍🍳 Instructions📜 History & Origin🔥 Cooking Mastery🗺️ Regional Variations🥗 Nutrition FAQ

💡 Did You Know?

This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations, preserving the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 500 g glutinous rice
  • 300 ml thick coconut milk
  • 100 g peanuts Boil
  • 2 sheets pandan leaves
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Janur (leaves coconut muda) for wrapping

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Soak rice glutinous rice semalam, Drain
  2. Mix glutinous rice with coconut milk, salt, and pandan leaf
  3. Take sesheet janur, isi with glutinous rice and beberapa kacang
  4. Wrap until membentuk silinder small, ikat with tali janur
  5. Boil in water mendidih selama 2-3 hours until cooked sempurna
  6. Remove and let stand cold before served

💡 Tips

Make sure the coconut leaf wrappers are tight enough so they do not open during boiling. Boil with plenty of water for even cooking.

📜History & Origin

The Story Behind This Dish

Lepet has existed since ancient times and is often served during Nyepi celebrations in Bali and Javanese ceremonies.

🔥Cooking Mastery

Technique

Wrapping in coconut leaves and boiling for a long time until the glutinous rice is fully cooked.

🗺️Regional Variations

Regional Differences

In Bali, Lepet is often filled with red beans. In Sumatra, there is Lepet filled with meat.

🥗Nutrition & Dietary Info

Nutritional Profile

High carbohydrates from glutinous rice. Protein from peanuts. Fat from coconut milk provides a savory flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf?

Lepet is a traditional Indonesian snack made from glutinous rice mixed with coconut milk and peanuts, wrapped in young coconut leaves (janur) and boiled for several hours. The result is a sticky, savoury rice cake with a distinct aroma from the coconut leaves. It is particularly popular during religious celebrations.

Where does Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf come from?

Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf originates from Java. It is a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations of Indonesian cooks.

Can I find Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf outside Indonesia?

Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf can be found at Indonesian restaurants and Asian grocery stores in many countries. However, the authentic taste is best experienced in Indonesia. You can also make it at home using the recipe above — many ingredients can be substituted with readily available alternatives.

Is Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf difficult to make?

Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf requires moderate cooking skills. While the steps are clear, some techniques need practice.

Can I use light coconut milk for Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf?

While light coconut milk can be used, the traditional recipe calls for thick coconut milk (santan kental) for authentic richness and flavor.

How do I store leftover Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf?

Store leftover Lepet: Glutinous Rice Dumpling in Coconut Leaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld.

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Recipe researched by the NusantaraEats Editorial Team

This recipe has been carefully researched, tested, and documented to preserve authentic Indonesian culinary traditions. Sources include traditional cookbooks, regional culinary experts, and cultural heritage references from Indonesia.

📚 Traditional Indonesian Cookbooks🏛️ Cultural Heritage References👨‍🍳 Regional Culinary Experts
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