Discover the most famous Sundanese cuisine, from liwet rice, penyet chicken, to cendol. Taste the deliciousness of iconic dishes that will tempt your taste buds in West Java!
Sundanese cuisine is one of Indonesia’s rich and varied cultural heritages, originating from the Sundanese people who inhabit the West Java region. With abundant natural wealth, Sundanese cuisine is known for its fresh, spicy, and natural-based flavors.
Various Sundanese specialties offer a combination of flavors that are appetizing and are favorites among the people. Here are some of the most famous and must-try Sundanese Traditional Food.
1. Liwet Rice
Nasi liwet is one of the iconic foods from Sunda. This rice is cooked with coconut milk, bay leaves, and spices that give it a distinctive aroma and taste.
Usually, nasi liwet is served with side dishes such as chicken, fish, or tofu and tempeh, as well as chili sauce and fresh vegetables. Nasi liwet is often served as a dish for family events or parties, and is often enjoyed in a warm and intimate atmosphere.
2. Sundanese Grilled Chicken (Smashed Chicken)
Ayam penyet is one of the popular dishes in Sundanese made from chicken seasoned with special spices and then grilled until cooked.
This chicken is usually served with spicy chili paste and tomato sauce, as well as fresh vegetables such as cucumber, lettuce, and basil. The combination of juicy chicken, spicy chili sauce, and fresh vegetables makes this dish very appetizing.
3. Soto Bandung
Soto Bandung is a soup dish made from beef cooked with spices and vegetables. The soup has a fresh and savory taste, usually served with sliced cabbage, tomatoes, spring onions, and a sprinkling of fried onions.
Soto Bandung is often served with white rice or lontong, making it a delicious and filling dish. This soto is also often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch.
4. Steamed Fish
Pepes fish is a typical Sundanese dish made from fish seasoned with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and then steamed. This steaming process makes the fish more tender and absorbs the spices, producing a distinctive taste.
Pepes fish is usually served with warm rice and chili sauce, and fresh vegetables. This dish is perfect for fish lovers who want to enjoy a natural and delicious taste.
5. Karedok
Karedok is a Sundanese salad made from fresh vegetables such as cucumber, cabbage, bean sprouts, and long beans, mixed with thick and spicy peanut sauce.
This dish is usually served as a side dish with rice or can also be enjoyed as a healthy snack. Karedok offers a combination of fresh, spicy, and savory flavors, and provides a pleasant crunch sensation when eaten.
6. Tofu and Tempeh
Tofu and tempeh are very popular protein sources among Sundanese people. Fried tofu until brown or tempeh processed into various dishes are the perfect complement to the main course.
Tofu and tempeh are usually served with chili sauce, rice, and vegetables, making them a delicious and filling dish. In addition, tofu and tempeh are also rich in nutrients and very good for health.
7. Lotek
Lotek is a vegetable salad similar to karedok, but uses a different peanut sauce. The vegetables used usually consist of spinach, kale, and other vegetables, which are boiled and mixed with peanut sauce.
Lotek is served with crackers or lontong, giving a delicious combination of flavors. This dish is very popular as a healthy food that is rich in vitamins and minerals.
8. Cendol
As a refreshing dessert, Sundanese cendol is made from rice flour molded into cendol shapes and mixed with coconut milk, liquid brown sugar, and shaved ice. Cendol is a perfect choice to cool off on a hot day, with its sweet taste and chewy texture that makes it a favorite of many.
Conclusion
Sundanese cuisine offers a variety of dishes that are rich in flavor and appetizing in taste. From delicious liwet rice, tempting penyet chicken, to refreshing cendol, each dish has its own uniqueness and appeal.
If you have the chance to visit West Java or Bogor, don’t miss the chance to taste these various West Java Traditional Food. Enjoy a culinary experience rich in taste and culture!
Discover the most famous Sundanese cuisine, from liwet rice, penyet chicken, to cendol. Taste the deliciousness of iconic dishes that will tempt your taste buds in West Java!
