92 delicious indonesian recipes from around the world
Indonesia's beloved national fried rice, characterized by its smoky, sweet, and savory profile derived from kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) and terasi (shrimp paste). This recipe is elevated with tender chicken or shrimp and crowned with a perfectly fried egg and crispy fried shallots.
A rich and intensely flavored Indonesian dry beef curry, where beef is slow-cooked in coconut milk and a complex spice paste until the liquid evaporates and the meat is tender and caramelized. Considered by many to be one of the world's best dishes.
Sate Lilit is a unique and flavorful satay originating from Bali, Indonesia. Unlike typical satay where meat is skewered in chunks, sate lilit uses minced meat (fish, chicken, or beef) mixed with grated coconut, rich spices, and herbs, then wrapped around lemongrass stalks or bamboo skewers before grilling. This method infuses the satay with aromatic flavors and results in a tender, moist texture.
A beloved Indonesian street food, Bakso features tender, bouncy beef meatballs simmered in a fragrant, savory broth, typically served with noodles and a sprinkle of fried shallots. This recipe focuses on achieving that signature chewy texture.
Kue Putu are traditional Indonesian steamed rice cakes, often sold as a street snack. They are characterized by their cylindrical shape, vibrant green color (from pandan), sweet palm sugar filling, and are typically served with fresh grated coconut.
A classic Indonesian stir-fried water spinach dish, known for its vibrant green color and savory, umami-rich flavor. Kangkung (water spinach) is quickly stir-fried with garlic, chili, and a generous amount of terasi (shrimp paste), creating a simple yet incredibly delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with rice.
A vibrant and healthy Indonesian-Chinese stir-fry featuring a colorful medley of vegetables and your choice of protein, all coated in a savory sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and easily customizable.
A classic Javanese dish of steamed rice served with blanched vegetables and a rich, savory peanut sauce. Often found in Central and East Java.
Gado Gado is a vibrant Indonesian vegetable salad featuring blanched or steamed vegetables, firm tofu, and hard-boiled eggs, all generously coated in a rich and savory peanut sauce. It's a beloved Javanese street food classic.
Kue Bingka Ubi Kayu is a popular Indonesian baked cake made from grated cassava, coconut milk, sugar, and eggs. It's known for its slightly chewy interior and a wonderfully crispy, caramelized golden-brown crust. This Nyonya delicacy is a delightful sweet treat, perfect with coffee or tea.
Ayam Goreng is a classic Indonesian fried chicken dish. Chicken pieces are marinated in a fragrant spice paste, then gently braised in coconut water with aromatic herbs until tender and infused with flavor. Finally, they are deep-fried to a beautiful golden-brown crisp. It's traditionally served with steamed rice and a side of sambal.
A beloved Indonesian dessert drink featuring fragrant pandan jelly noodles (cendol) suspended in creamy coconut milk, sweetened with a rich palm sugar syrup, and served over crushed ice. It's a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and refreshing.
A refreshing and tangy beef soup originating from Semarang, Central Java. This dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a clear, sour broth flavored with tamarind, bilimbi (a sour fruit), and a medley of aromatic spices and vegetables like chilies, tomatoes, and long beans. It's a delightful contrast to richer Indonesian stews.
A comforting and sweet Indonesian dessert, Kolak features tender pieces of banana and sweet potato simmered in fragrant coconut milk infused with palm sugar and pandan leaves. It's a popular dish, especially during Ramadan for breaking the fast.
A comforting and flavorful Indonesian vegetable curry featuring a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, aromatic coconut milk broth. This dish is a staple in Indonesian households, perfect for a wholesome everyday meal.
A flavorful Indonesian-fried rice dish with a Surinamese twist, incorporating local ingredients and spices for a unique taste.
A classic Indonesian comfort food, Semur Daging features tender chunks of beef slow-braised in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce made with kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). This Dutch-influenced dish is deeply aromatic and pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
A beloved Indonesian night snack, Martabak Manis is a thick, fluffy, and slightly chewy sweet pancake cooked in a special round pan. It's typically filled with a generous amount of butter, sugar, and your choice of toppings like chocolate sprinkles, grated cheese, or crushed peanuts, then folded in half and served warm.
Es Buah, meaning 'fruit ice' in Indonesian, is a popular and incredibly refreshing dessert or beverage. It features a delightful medley of fresh fruits, generously topped with shaved ice, and then drizzled with sweetened condensed milk, creamy coconut milk, and a touch of sweet palm sugar syrup. It's a perfect treat for hot weather.
A classic North Sumatran dish featuring thick, chewy noodles tossed in a rich, aromatic, and spicy curry sauce, often served with tender beef or seafood.
Soto Sulung is a rich and aromatic beef soup originating from Makassar, South Sulawesi. Unlike other sotos, it features a distinct blend of spices and is often enriched with coconut milk, giving it a creamy texture and a complex flavor profile. It's typically served with rice or lontong, and a variety of condiments.
Soto Lamongan is a fragrant and flavorful Indonesian chicken soup originating from East Java. It's characterized by its vibrant yellow broth, tender shredded chicken, and a unique crunchy topping called 'koya', made from fried coconut and shrimp crackers. This recipe provides a detailed guide to creating this authentic dish.
Nasi Uduk is a fragrant Indonesian rice dish cooked in coconut milk and often infused with aromatics like lemongrass and bay leaves. It's a popular breakfast in Jakarta, typically served with a variety of delicious accompaniments.
Ayam Goreng Kalasan is a beloved Indonesian dish featuring chicken that is first braised in a fragrant, spiced coconut milk mixture, then twice-fried to achieve an incredibly crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. This method ensures the chicken is deeply infused with flavor and perfectly cooked.
