Bandung with Grass Jelly
Hawker • Singapore
About Bandung with Grass Jelly
Rose milk drink with grass jelly cubes — hawker twist
How to Make Bandung with Grass Jelly (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Bandung with Grass Jelly is a nostalgic beverage beloved in Singapore, commonly found in kopitiams and hawker centres across the island. This stunning pink drink is a fusion of rose syrup, low-fat milk, and chewy grass jelly, making it both refreshing and visually appealing. Originating from the Malay community and later embraced by Singapore’s multicultural food scene, this drink perfectly captures the fusion influences that define Singaporean cuisine. Bandung’s delicate floral notes paired with the earthy, herbal bite of grass jelly (cincau) offer a unique taste experience, especially on hot afternoons. Grass jelly not only adds texture but also reduces the overall sweetness, making it a healthier choice compared to other sweetened beverages. Whether enjoyed during a festive gathering or as a cooling treat after a spicy hawker meal, Bandung with Grass Jelly stands out as a must-try Singaporean classic, perfect for those seeking a lower-calorie yet authentic local delight.
Ingredients(for 1 tall kopitiam glass (approx. 300ml))
- 4 tablespoons Rose syrup (use Singaporean rose syrup brands like F&N)
- 2 cups Low-fat milk (chilled, or use oat milk for vegan option)
- 1 cup Grass jelly (cincau) (cubed, available at wet markets or supermarkets)
- 1 cup Ice cubes (as needed)
- 1/2 cup Water (for adjusting sweetness and consistency) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional, for lower sugar) - optional
- 2 tablespoons Evaporated milk (optional, for creamier kopitiam-style) - optional
- 4-6 leaves Fresh mint leaves (for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the grass jelly by cutting it into small cubes. Place the cubes into a bowl and chill in the refrigerator.
5 minutes
Use a sharp knife for neat cubes and rinse briefly to remove excess syrup.
- 2
In a jug, combine rose syrup and cold low-fat milk. Stir gently until the mixture turns a uniform pink.
3 minutes
Add the rose syrup gradually to control sweetness and color.
- 3
If desired, add stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Mix well to dissolve completely.
2 minutes
Taste as you go—Bandung should be fragrant but not overly sweet.
- 4
Add water to adjust the consistency if the drink is too thick or sweet.
1 minute
Use cold water to maintain the drink’s chill.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Bandung with Grass Jelly is a smart, health-conscious alternative to sugary sodas or bubble tea. By using low-fat or plant-based milk, reducing added sugar, and incorporating fibre-rich grass jelly, this drink supports hydration and satiety without excess calories. It’s a delicious treat for those mindful of their daily intake, yet still captures the authentic flavors of Singaporean hawker culture.
This healthier Bandung with Grass Jelly recipe offers a reduced sugar content by using low-fat milk and optional natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. Grass jelly is low in calories and a good source of dietary fibre, supporting digestive health. The drink is also rich in calcium from the milk, while rose syrup provides a small dose of antioxidants. With fewer calories than traditional sweetened beverages, this version fits well into a balanced diet.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Chill glasses before serving for a longer-lasting cold drink.
- 💡Tip 2: Make your own grass jelly for better control over sweetness and texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust rose syrup amount based on your preferred sweetness and color intensity.
Storage & Serving
Store the Bandung mixture (without ice or grass jelly) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add fresh grass jelly and ice just before serving to retain texture and freshness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 170.0 kcal |
| Protein | 3.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32.0 g |
| Total Fat | 3.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |
