Es Ancruk: A Blend of Tradition and Togetherness in a Glass of Singaraja’s Glutinous Rice Balls

Es Ancruk is a signature beverage from Singaraja, Buleleng Regency, Bali, combining sweetness, freshness, and profound life philosophy. More than just an iftar treat, Es Ancruk symbolizes tolerance and togetherness in Buleleng society. This drink unites cultural elements from various communities, reflecting perfect harmony in a traditional glass.

The Philosophy in a Glass of Es Ancruk

Es Ancruk is not merely a culinary delight; it is a reflection of the values upheld by the people of Den Bukit (another name for Buleleng). In this region, differences are not barriers but a unifying force. Like the diverse ingredients in Es Ancruk—ancruk (glutinous rice balls), bubur sumsum (rice flour pudding), sugar palm fruit, and syrup—each element is unique, yet together they create an extraordinary taste.

This mirrors the diversity of Buleleng's society, which consists of various ethnic groups such as Javanese, Bugis, Arab, and Balinese communities. This harmony represents the long-standing cultural fusion of Hindu and Islamic traditions in the region.

The cultural blending between Hinduism and Islam in Singaraja has resulted in a rich and unique culinary tradition. In this context, Es Ancruk stands as a symbol of unity, reminding us that diversity can be a tremendous strength when appreciated and wisely combined. It’s no wonder that Es Ancruk leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it.

Ingredients in Es Ancruk (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

The main ingredient of Es Ancruk is small glutinous rice balls known as ancruk. Made by mixing glutinous rice flour with warm water, ancruk has a chewy texture that is its hallmark. Often, food coloring like red, green, or yellow is added for a more appealing look. The key ingredients include:

Ingredients for Ancruk (Candil):

1. Glutinous rice flour: 100 grams
2. Warm water: Not too hot to prevent clumping
3. Food coloring: Optional, for desired colors (e.g., green and red)
4. Wheat flour: As needed, to prevent sticking during boiling

Ingredients for the Banana Compote (Kolak):

1. Kepok/Raja bananas: Thinly sliced, about three bananas
2. Granulated sugar: 100 grams (or adjusted to taste)
3. Palm sugar: As needed, for natural coloring and sweetness
4. Thin coconut milk: 100 ml
5. Water: 100 ml or as needed
6. Pandan leaves: Two leaves, for aromatic flavor

Ingredients for Bubur Sumsum:

1. Rice flour: 100 grams, sifted to avoid lumps
2. Thin coconut milk: 100 ml
3. Pandan leaves: Two leaves, for aromatic flavor

Steps to Make Es Ancruk (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

1. Making Ancruk

The first step is to mix glutinous rice flour with warm water. Knead the dough until smooth, then divide it into portions. Add food coloring (red, green, or yellow) to each portion or leave them plain for variation. Shape the dough into small balls and coat them with wheat flour to prevent sticking. Boil the balls in boiling water until they float, then transfer them into cold water.

2. Making the Compote (Kolak)

Slice the ripe bananas into pieces and boil them with water, granulated sugar, palm sugar, and pandan leaves until tender. Add the coconut milk and cook over low heat until the mixture boils. This compote is one of the key elements of Es Ancruk.

The Process of Making Compote (Kolak) in Es Ancruk (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

3. Making Bubur Sumsum

Mix rice flour, coconut milk, and pandan leaves in a pot. Cook over medium heat while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and is fully cooked. This pudding adds a soft texture to Es Ancruk.

4. Serving Es Ancruk

In a serving bowl, layer the ingredients such as ancruk, banana compote, bubur sumsum, and optionally agar-agar. Add shaved ice if you prefer it cold, and drizzle cocopandan syrup to taste. With these combinations, Es Ancruk is ready to serve.

Serving Es Ancruk (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Es Ancruk is more than just a sweet and refreshing treat; it’s a life lesson on how differences can come together to create something extraordinary. Its presence during iftar or family gatherings in Buleleng symbolizes that diversity is a treasure to be celebrated.

More than a drink, Es Ancruk represents togetherness, tolerance, and unity deeply ingrained in Singaraja society. A glass of Es Ancruk not only delights the taste buds but also warms the heart, reminding us that in diversity, there lies immeasurable beauty.