Joanna James
While it may not be as popular or as widely known as its Thai counterpart, Indonesian cuisine is one of Asia's finest culinary schools and a canon that contains dozens of incredible dishes. Here are 7 Indonesian dishes every traveller should try at least once.
As a dish that traces its origins to the Palembang in southern Sumatra, Pempek has gained nationwide popularity for its distinct flavour and wholesomeness. Served as a snack or starter in some restaurants or even as a main dish, Pempek consists of a filleted fish that's served alongside tapioca. Pempek is known for its chewy texture and comes in a plethora of shapes. Usually consumed with a sweet and salty sauce, Pempek is also paired with noodles.
Dumpling fans in search of an Indonesian variation of the dish must try a plate of Siomay during a tour of Jakarta. The shrimp or fish filling that's contained within the dumpling is just one of the main reasons behind the popularity of this simple dish, which also features a host of other fillings based on the cook's preferences. Topped off with soy sauce and peanut sauce, Siomay is served alongside potato, tofu and other vegetarian side dishes such as rolled cabbages while some even include a hard-boiled egg in the assortment.
Those who are based at HARRIS Hotel Tebet Jakarta or a similar city hotel will find plenty of restaurants in Jakarta Selatan, which features this delicious veggie salad on the menu. A big hit with vegetarians and backpackers, this dish is often served as a starter and contains a wide range of wholesome ingredients including bean sprouts, potatoes, spinach, tofu and long beans. The veggies are usually steamed or boiled and doused in peanut sauce.
Travellers who love their meatballs won't be able to resist the flavour and aroma of this meaty dish that's also infused with tapioca to give it a unique texture. Bakso balls are often served with egg noodles, rice noodles that are then soaked in a piping hot and savoury flavoured soup. Considered a nutritious meal, diners usually season their Bakso soup with soy sauce or Indonesian chilli.
With its name literally translating to "sour soup," Sayur Asem is the perfect pick-me-up for those who love tangy broths. Made using a number of vegetables including long beans and corn, the spicy broth also employs tamarind to achieve its acidity and tanginess. Often served as a side dish for a main meal consisting of fish or meat, peanuts are another curious ingredient of this soup variety.
Soy fanatics won't be able to get enough of this soybean cake that can be grilled, steamed, pan-fried or even deep-fried. Sometimes used to top off noodle and rice dishes, Tempeh can also be consumed on its own with a number of spicy sauces. The high protein content is what makes this dish a nutritious snack or meal.
Forget Nasi Goreng, Nasi Uduk is the creamier and more wholesome alternative that will erase every memory of everyone's favourite Indonesian rice dish. Cooked in thick coconut cream and a number of herbs, Nasi Uduk is a breakfast option that's usually consumed with potato cakes and eggs.
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