Healthy Bali-Inspired Oat Slice Snack for Kids, Indonesia
Discover the perfect snack for your kids while visiting or living in Bali!
This Bali-inspired oat slice recipe combines wholesome ingredients with tropical flavors, creating a healthy treat that kids will love.
Packed with nutrition and easy to make, it’s an ideal snack for busy families.
Table of Contents
What are Oat Slices?
Oat slices are wholesome baked bars made from rolled oats and natural sweeteners, perfect for a snack or dessert.
By adding Balinese elements like coconut and spices, these oat slices gain a tropical twist that appeals to both kids and adults.
Balinese Inspiration for Oat Slices
Balinese cuisine inspires this recipe with its use of coconut, pandan, and palm sugar.
These ingredients add aromatic and flavorful dimensions while keeping the recipe nutritious and kid-friendly.
This Bali-inspired oat slice recipe is a delightful fusion of traditional flavors and modern convenience.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Oat Slices
Base Ingredients:
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup desiccated coconut
1/3 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar)
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegans)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Balinese Flavors:
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp grated fresh coconut (optional)
Optional Toppings:
1/4 cup dried mango, diced
1/4 cup cashews, roughly chopped
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Oat Slices
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Line a small baking tray with parchment paper or banana leaves for a more authentic touch.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, desiccated coconut, palm sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Stir well to ensure even distribution of spices for a balanced flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
This creates a rich, sweet base for the oat mixture.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or clean hands to mix thoroughly, ensuring every oat is well-coated.
If using grated fresh coconut, add it during this step for a burst of tropical flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Oat Slices
Transfer the mixture to the prepared tray. Spread it evenly and press down firmly using a spatula or your fingers.
This ensures the slices hold their shape after baking. Scatter diced dried mango and cashews on top, pressing them gently into the surface.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into bars or squares using a sharp knife.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the slices on a serving platter lined with banana leaves for a tropical presentation.
Serve at room temperature and watch your kids enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Serve on Banana Leaves: Use fresh banana leaves as a base for serving the oat slices. Trim the leaves to fit your tray or serving plate for a polished look.
Garnish with Edible Flowers: Top the slices with marigold petals or frangipani flowers. These flowers not only add vibrant color but are also a nod to Balinese cultural aesthetics.
Create a Tropical Platter: Pair the oat slices with freshly cut tropical fruits such as dragon fruit, mango, or papaya. Arrange them around the slices for an eye-catching display.
Use Traditional Tableware: Serve the oat slices on woven bamboo trays or clay plates to enhance the Balinese theme. Add small bowls of sambal or coconut shavings as accompaniments.
Add a Coconut Accent: Serve the oat slices alongside small cups of chilled coconut water or tender coconut meat for a refreshing, cohesive snack experience.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 40,000-60,000 ($2.50-$4.00 USD)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories
220 kcal
Fat
9g
Cholestrol
0mg
Sodium
85mg
Carbohydrates
32g
Protein
3g
FAQs about Oat Slices in Bali
Q1: Are there traditional Balinese spices I can add to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can experiment with pandan leaf extract or freshly grated ginger for an authentic Balinese twist.
Q2: Can I replace cashews with other local nuts?
A: Absolutely! Candlenuts, often used in Balinese cooking, are a great substitute. Just ensure they are roasted and chopped for added crunch.
Q3: What’s the best way to store these oat slices in Bali’s humid climate?
A: Store the slices in an airtight container with silica gel packets to keep them fresh. Refrigeration is also recommended to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Q4: Are there any cultural customs tied to using coconut in recipes?
A: In Bali, coconuts are often considered a symbol of purity and are used in offerings. Incorporating coconut into your dishes can be seen as a respectful nod to Balinese traditions.