The traditional dishes of Bandung not only tempt the taste buds but are also rich in cultural meaning that reflects the wealth of regional traditions.
Bandung, often referred to as the City of Flowers, is not only known for its stunning natural beauty but also for its rich culinary heritage that excites the appetite.
Located in the highlands of West Java, Bandung offers a variety of delicious dishes inspired by the blend of cultures and traditions that have developed in the region.
Each dish carries a story and history that reflects the cultural diversity of the people of Bandung. In this article, let’s explore 10 traditional dishes from Bandung that are not only delicious but also hold deep cultural and historical significance.
1. Surabi Bandung: Timeless Traditional Flavor
Surabi is a traditional Bandung snack made from rice flour. This dish has a neutral base flavor, similar to bread, but now comes in various toppings ranging from sweet, savory, to spicy.
Authentic Bandung Surabi is cooked in a heated clay pot, giving it a unique aroma that can’t be found elsewhere. Surabi toppings vary from oncom, cheese, to durian, making each bite even more delicious.
2. Batagor: A Delightful Combination of Fried Meatballs and Tofu
Batagor, short for *bakso tahu goreng* (fried tofu meatballs), is one of Bandung’s most popular dishes.
It consists of fish meatballs wrapped in tofu, then deep-fried until crispy and served with savory peanut sauce, often enhanced with sweet soy sauce for a contrasting sweetness. Batagor has become an iconic Bandung dish, widely recognized across Indonesia.
3. Mie Kocok Bandung: Warm Your Body with a Bowl of Savory Noodles
Mie Kocok is a noodle dish served in a savory beef broth, often accompanied by chewy beef tendon, bean sprouts, and various vegetables.
This dish, one of the Bandung Specialties, has a rich flavor and is perfect for cold weather. Mie Kocok Bandung is a classic must-try dish when visiting Bandung, providing warmth and deliciousness that delights the palate.
4. Seblak: A Spicy Dish That’s Gaining Popularity
Seblak, made from crackers boiled with spicy seasonings such as kencur, chili, and garlic, is a dish loved especially by Bandung’s youth.
The soft crackers are mixed with spices that give a bold spicy kick. Seblak is often combined with additional ingredients like chicken, meatballs, and eggs to enhance the flavor. This trendy dish has become increasingly popular and can be easily found in various parts of Bandung.
5. Lotek and Karedok: Healthy Dishes with Bandung’s Signature Peanut Sauce
Lotek and Karedok are two traditional Bandung dishes that use vegetables as their main ingredients.
The difference lies in the vegetables used—lotek uses cooked vegetables such as spinach and chayote, while karedok uses raw vegetables.
Both dishes are served with a peanut sauce made from peanuts, brown sugar, kencur, and shallots. The fresh and savory taste of the peanut sauce makes these dishes both healthy and delicious.
6. Peuyeum (Cassava Tapai): A Traditional Dish Full of History
Peuyeum is a food made from fermented cassava. The fermentation process gives it a natural sweetness and chewy texture.
This dish originated from Cimenyan District, Bandung, and was once used as a rice substitute during the colonial era. Today, Peuyeum is often enjoyed either plain or grilled and served with grated coconut and palm sugar syrup, known as Colenak.
7. Bandros: A Traditional Bandung Cake That Tempts the Taste Buds
Bandros is a traditional cake made from a mixture of rice flour and coconut milk, cooked in a concave mold. The cake has a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
After being grilled, Bandros is sprinkled with grated coconut to enhance its flavor. This cake is perfect to enjoy with a cup of tea in the afternoon and is commonly sold around Bandung.
8. Cuanki: A Simple Dish That Warms the Body
Cuanki is a traditional Bandung dish consisting of meatballs, fried dumplings, and savory hot broth. This dish is perfect for enjoying on cold days, with its rich broth and warming ingredients.
The name “Cuanki” comes from the sellers’ habit of walking around on foot to find buyers. Cuanki is a legendary dish in Bandung and remains very popular.
9. Soto Bandung: A Refreshing Clear Broth Dish
Soto Bandung is a Bandung-style soup with clear broth, beef, and fresh radish. The clear broth is light but flavorful and is often served with rice cakes or lontong.
Soto Bandung has become a local favorite, especially for those looking to enjoy a refreshing and delicious dish in the morning or on cold days. This dish has become part of Bandung’s culinary heritage and is sought after by tourists.
10. Nasi Tutug Oncom: A Tasty and Filling Traditional Dish
Nasi Tutug Oncom is a traditional dish that combines rice with oncom, a fermented ingredient similar to tempe but denser and with a stronger flavor. The rice is cooked with spices and mixed with grilled oncom, giving it a distinctive savory taste.
Nasi Tutug Oncom is typically served with side dishes such as fried chicken or grilled fish, making it a satisfying lunch option.
Bandung’s culinary scene is a reflection of the city’s rich culture and traditions. From dishes that have existed for centuries like Surabi and Batagor to contemporary foods like Seblak, each traditional dish from Bandung tells an interesting story and history.
Not only delicious, these dishes, along with Typical Bogor Food, also introduce us to the way of life and values upheld by the people of Bandung. So, if you’re in Bandung, make sure to try these delectable dishes and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience.
