It’s not uncommon to find similarities in different cuisines across Asia, but Indonesian cooking is truly in a class of its own. The breadth of diversity that exists in the archipelago—1,300 native ethnic groups, all with their own traditions and cultures—has no doubt contributed to the vibrancy of its traditional foods, which champion an abundance of spices and rich flavors.
Here are the seven Indonesian dishes you should try at least once in your life.
Nasi bungkus
This dish is an Indonesian take out-style meal that literally translates as “wrapped rice.” Not only is nasi bungkus delicious, having it as a meal is a distinctly Indonesian experience. As the name suggests, diners will find two to three different side proteins and/or veggies cooked and seasoned to perfection with a big helping of white rice—all wrapped in banana leaf. What really makes this take out meal unique is that the white rice retains the fragrance and moisture of its natural packaging, adding another dimension of flavor to the dish.
Where to eat: Restoran Sederhana SCBD (Kawasan Niaga Terpadu Lot. 8 Jend. Sudirman Kav. 52 - 53, Jalan SCBD, South Jakarta)
Daging rendang
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**Go to any “Top Indonesian Foods” listicle (like this one) and you’ll see that rendang always makes the cut. And there’s a reason why: Indonesian beef stew, or rendang, is slow-cooked for hours in a bevy of spices commonly found in Southeast Asian cooking, such as ginger, candlenut, coconut milk, coriander, and galangal. The result? A distinct savory stew with melt-off-the-bones soft meat that appeals to all types of taste buds.
Where to eat: Rumah Makan Pagi Sore (Jalan Cipete Raya No. 2, South Jakarta)
Martabak
Martabak is a layered flour cake-type dish with your choice of filling slathered generously in-between and then pan-fried or baked depending on whether you want it sweet (martabak manis) or savory (martabak telur). Martabak manis is usually taken as a sweet dessert filled with cheese, chocolate, condensed milk and chopped peanuts. Meanwhile, martabak telur has an egg-based filling mixed with leek, onions and ground meat, making it a delectable savory snack.
Where to eat: Martabak Sinar Bulan (Jalan Pluit Karang Indah Timur, Blok 8B, North Jakarta)
Gado-gado
If you’re a vegetarian or simply trying to cut back on meat, there are plenty of Indonesian veggie dishes that you can savor. Gado-gado, which literally translates to “mixed up,” is a popular Indonesian-style salad. It is a medley of cabbage, lettuce, bean sprouts, potatoes, string beans and more - the mix ultimately depends on where you are because each region has their own take. But what really makes this dish is the peanut-based dressing used to top it off.
Where to eat: Gado-Gado Cemara (Jalan Tanah Abang V 36, Central Jakarta)
Ikan balado
“Balado” is a type of Indonesian chilli paste made using a base of garlic, red onions, and lots and lots of red hot chillies that are mashed together until it resembles a smooth paste-like consistency. There are all kinds of balado dishes to choose from, but one of the most popular is without a doubt ikan balado (balado chilli fish). The balado chilli is served on cooked fish (typically grilled mackerel) and is a must-try Indonesian meal, especially for those who have a hankering for burn-your-tongue spicy foods.
Where to eat: Seribu Rasa (Gandaria City Mall, South Jakarta)
Opor ayam
Another very popular Indonesian dish, opor ayam is a salty chicken curry plate that packs a ton of flavor through a combination of ginger, bay leaves, lemongrass, shallots, and other spices in its creamy broth. Some fluffy white rice, tempe and kerupuk udang (shrimp crackers) on the side and you have yourself a signature Indonesian meal.
Where to eat: Restoran Garuda (Jalan Agus Salim No.59, Central Jakarta)
Es teler
This ice-cold dessert is perfect to beat the hot weather over there. It is basically an ice cocktail that is both delicious and photo-worthy as its main ingredients of coconut, avocado, jackfruit, condensed milk, and flavored syrup result in a rainbow of color. Not only is it tasty and refreshing, the vibrant aesthetic of this dessert can easily brighten up your mood.
Where to eat: Es Teler Sinar Garut (Jalan Pecenongan Raya, Central Jakarta)
What’s the best dish to try in your country? Do you have a go-to spot to get it? Tell us in the comments below!
