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The food in Indonesia is known for its rich flavours, unique spices, and diverse cooking styles. The country has a long history of blending local ingredients with foreign influences, creating traditional and modern dishes. From simple street food to elaborate meals, Indonesian cuisine offers something for everyone. Many meals are served with rice, a staple in Indonesian households, to be relished by all.
Top 10 Food In Indonesia
Discover the delicious flavours of Indonesia with these top 10 must-try food in Indonesia, a rich culinary delight:
1. Gado-Gado
Photo: Sakurai Midori / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Gado-gado is a traditional Indonesian salad that combines boiled vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and eggs with a rich peanut sauce. The dish originated in Java and has been a popular street food for decades. Traditionally, the peanut sauce was made by grinding peanuts with a stone mortar, but modern versions use blenders. There are variations of gado-gado, some including potatoes and long beans. It is a healthy meal packed with vitamins, protein, and fiber. This dish is a famous food, known for its unique mix of flavours and textures.
Best Places To Try: Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya
Regional Variations: Gado-Gado Betawi (Jakarta), Gado-Gado Surabaya, Gado-Gado Sidoarjo, Gado-Gado Padang
2. Nasi Goreng
Photo: D.W. Fisher-Freberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nasi goreng, meaning “fried rice” in Indonesian, has been a staple dish for centuries. It was influenced by Chinese fried rice but developed its own unique taste with Indonesian spices. The traditional version uses kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), shrimp paste, and shallots, while modern variations may include cheese or different meats. A fun fact is that nasi goreng is often served with a fried egg on top. It is high in carbohydrates and provides good energy. This dish is considered the best food in Indonesia and is enjoyed at any time of the day.
Best Places To Try: Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta
Regional Variations: Nasi Goreng Jawa (Central Java), Nasi Goreng Padang (West Sumatra), Nasi Goreng Aceh, Nasi Goreng Kampung (village-style), Nasi Goreng Bali
3. Bakso
Photo: Li Tsin Soon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bakso is a popular Indonesian meatball soup originally influenced by Chinese cuisine. Over time, it has evolved into an authentic Indonesian dish, with different regions adding their own touch. Traditional bakso is made from minced beef mixed with tapioca flour, but modern versions include chicken, fish, or even vegetarian options. Some places serve giant bakso, which can be as big as a bowl. This dish is a good source of protein and iron. It is a top food in Indonesia, loved for its rich broth and soft meatballs, making it a favourite comfort food.
Best Places To Try: Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya
Regional Variations: Bakso Malang (East Java), Bakso Solo (Central Java), Bakso Urat (tendon-filled), Bakso Ikan (fish-based), Bakso Tahu (tofu-filled)
4. Nasi Padang
Photo: D.W. Fisher-Freberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nasi Padang comes from the Minangkabau ethnic group in West Sumatra. It is named after the city of Padang, where it became famous. This meal consists of rice served with various side dishes, such as rendang, fried fish, and sambal. Traditionally, restaurants serve the dishes in small portions on multiple plates, allowing diners to pick what they like. Some variations include grilled chicken or jackfruit curry. The meal is high in protein and fats, filling and satisfying. Nasi Padang is a famous food in Indonesia, offering a taste of rich spices and traditional cooking.
Best Places To Try: Padang, Jakarta, Medan
Regional Variations: Nasi Padang Bukittinggi, Nasi Padang Pariaman, Nasi Padang Payakumbuh, Nasi Padang Medan
5. Satay
Photo: BrokenSphere / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Satay is a traditional Indonesian dish that consists of grilled meat skewers. It is believed to have originated from Java and was influenced by Middle Eastern kebabs. Traditional satay uses chicken, beef, or lamb, while modern versions include seafood or tofu. The meat is marinated in a blend of turmeric and spices before being grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour. A fun fact is that satay is commonly served with peanut sauce and rice cakes. This dish is rich in protein and is considered the best food, enjoyed as a snack or main course.
Best Places To Try: Jakarta, Bali, Yogyakarta
Regional Variations: Satay Madura, Satay Padang, Satay Lilit (Bali), Satay Maranggi (West Java), Satay Banjar (South Kalimantan)
6. Pempek
Photo: Lord Mountbatten / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pempek is a fish cake dish that comes from Palembang, South Sumatra. Local fishermen created it as a way to preserve fish by mixing it with tapioca flour. Traditionally, pempek is served with a sweet and tangy vinegar sauce called cuko. There are different types of pempek, including kapal selam, which has an egg inside. A fun fact is that this dish is often eaten with cucumber and noodles. It is a good source of protein and omega-3. Pempek is a top food in Indonesia, loved for its chewy texture and savoury taste.
Best Places To Try: Palembang, Jakarta, Bandung
Regional Variations: Pempek Kapal Selam, Pempek Lenjer, Pempek Adaan, Pempek Kulit, Pempek Pistel
7. Rendang
Photo: Midori / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Rendang is a slow-cooked beef dish from the Minangkabau culture in West Sumatra. It was originally made for celebrations and special events. Traditional rendang takes hours to cook, allowing the meat to absorb the spices fully. Modern versions reduce the cooking time but still retain the rich flavour. A fun fact is that rendang was once voted as the world’s most delicious dish. It is high in protein and iron, making it a nutritious meal. Rendang is the most famous food, known for its deep, complex flavours and tender meat.
Best Places To Try: Padang, Jakarta, Bali
Regional Variations: Rendang Padang (dry style), Rendang Minang (wet style), Rendang Jawa (sweeter), Rendang Ayam (chicken), Rendang Nangka (jackfruit)
8. Nasi Uduk
Photo: Gunawan Kartapranata / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nasi Uduk is a coconut milk rice dish that originated in Jakarta. It is often eaten for breakfast but is available throughout the day. Traditional Nasi Uduk is served with fried chicken, boiled eggs, and tempeh, while modern versions may include grilled fish or beef. A fun fact is that “uduk” means “mixed” in Indonesian, referring to the way the rice is cooked with spices. The dish is high in carbohydrates and provides energy. It is one of the best food here, offering a fragrant and slightly sweet taste that pairs well with spicy side dishes.
Best Places To Try: Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya
Regional Variations: Nasi Uduk Betawi (Jakarta), Nasi Uduk Cianjur (West Java), Nasi Uduk Kuning (turmeric rice), Nasi Uduk Lombok
9. Soto
Photo: Midori / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Soto is a traditional Indonesian soup made with meat, broth, and vegetables. It has been around for centuries, with different regions creating their own versions. Traditional soto is made with chicken or beef, while modern versions include tofu or seafood. A fun fact is that Soto Betawi, a Jakarta version, uses coconut milk for a creamy taste. The soup is rich in protein and is known to be comforting. It is commonly enjoyed as a warm and hearty meal, especially during the rainy season.
Best Places To Try: Jakarta, Surabaya, Semarang
Regional Variations: Soto Betawi (Jakarta), Soto Ayam Lamongan (East Java), Soto Kudus (Central Java), Soto Padang (West Sumatra), Soto Medan
10. Babi Guling
Photo: Crisco 1492 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Babi Guling is a famous Balinese dish of roasted suckling pig. It was originally prepared for temple ceremonies but is now a common dish for tourists. Traditionally, the pig is marinated with turmeric and spices before being slow-roasted for hours, giving it crispy skin and tender meat. A fun fact is that it is considered a must-try dish in Bali. It is high in protein but also has a high-fat content. Babi Guling is a famous food in Indonesia, known for its rich flavour and cultural significance in Balinese traditions.
Best Places To Try: Bali
Regional Variations: Babi Guling Gianyar, Babi Guling Ubud, Babi Guling Kuta, Babi Guling Buleleng
Indonesia is home to a variety of delicious dishes that are full of flavour and tradition. From street food to restaurant meals, food in Indonesia offers something for everyone. If you are visiting the country, try the famous food to experience the rich taste of Indonesian cuisine. Plan your food tour with TripXL and explore Indonesia’s best culinary delights.
Cover Photo: Bynnasim / Wikimedia Commons
