Signature Cuisine of 5 Super Priority Destinations Ready For a Taste

Did you know that among the countless beauties of Indonesia, our government has identified 5 Super Priority Destinations (DSP) deserving special attention? They are Borobudur in Central Java, Likupang in North Sulawesi, Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Mandalika in West Nusa Tenggara, and Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara. These destinations are prioritized not only for their natural beauty but also for their culinary delights! Let's explore the delectable dishes you should savor when visiting these tourism marvels.

1. Borobudur

• Sego Godog

 Your trip to Borobudur wouldn't be complete without trying this distinctive dish. You can find it in many local eateries and restaurants around Magelang. It's a guaranteed addiction! But what is Sego Godog? It's a unique meal consisting of rice soaked in a spicy and flavorful broth. Inside, you'll find eggs, shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, celery, and fried shallots. If you like it spicy, you can add extra chili sauce. 

• Wedang Kacang

 This is one of the legendary traditional beverages around Borobudur. The main ingredient in Wedang Kacang is green beans boiled with palm sugar and rock sugar. All the ingredients are simmered for a long time, resulting in a delicious drink with a reddish-brown color. The unique texture comes from the addition of rice cake balls. Enjoy this beverage when you need warmth, especially on chilly nights.

2.  Likupang

• Cakalang Fufu

Likupang offers a spicy treat called Cakalang Fufu. It's made from cakalang fish and a blend of spices, then cooked through a smoking process for approximately four hours. 

To make it even more delicious, just fry it briefly. It pairs perfectly with hot rice and sambal dabu-dabu.

• Lalampa

 If compared to other Indonesian dishes, Lalampa is similar to lemper in Java. Both use sticky rice and are wrapped in banana leaves. However, Lalampa is filled with cakalang fish, and it must be grilled. Before grilling, it's coated with vegetable oil, enhancing its aroma and flavor. Lalampa is an excellent companion for your tea or coffee while in Likupang.

3. Mandalika

World-class riders have acknowledged the natural beauty, culture, and the warm hospitality of the Indonesian people in Mandalika. But equally captivating is Mandalika's local cuisine.

• Sate Bulayak

The primary ingredient in Sate Bulayak is beef. The sauce consists of roasted peanuts cooked with coconut milk, creating a taste similar to curry. The perfect accompaniment for Sate Bulayak is, of course, lontong. However, the lontong here is wrapped in palm leaves.

• Sambal Beberuk Terung

Photo: Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy

 If you love spicy food, you must try Sambal Beberuk Terung. Besides round eggplants, it includes other fresh vegetables like tomatoes and long beans. These veggies are served with a spicy red chili sauce. This sambal is a fantastic complement to dishes like ayam taliwang or other seafood delicacies.

4. Labuan Bajo 

• KoloThe word "kolo" means to cook using bamboo. Kolo resembles nasi bakar (grilled rice) at a glance. However, banana leaves are only used as a wrap, and kolo is grilled on bamboo sticks. The smoky bamboo aroma infuses into the rice, making this traditional food rich and flavorful. 

• Jagung Bose (Bose Corn)The locals refer to jagung bose as a substitute for rice. The appearance of jagung bose is similar to porridge, as it's made from white corn that's been pounded and mixed with red beans and coconut milk. It has a savory taste and is usually served with smoked meat.

5. Danau Toba (Lake Toba)

• Dekke Naniura

  Photo: https://indonesiakaya.com/

  Dekke Naniura: Dekke Naniura used to be served only during special occasions, particularly when hosting kings and traditional ceremonies. The main ingredient is mas fish. This dish is also known as Batak-style sashimi, as the fish is not cooked but soaked in kaffir lime juice to remove the fishy taste and odor. It's then seasoned with tamarind or unte jungga juice and various spices, and left to marinate for 3–5 hours before consumption. It's bound to pique anyone's curiosity, isn't it? 

• Manuk Napinadar

Photo: Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy 

Manuk Napinadar: This chicken dish has a philosophy as a means to offer prayers for blessings and energy. It's often the main dish at traditional celebrations like childbirth, weddings, and before someone embarks on a journey. Besides spices, the other ingredients for cooking it include grated toasted coconut and andaliman pepper.

Craving the authentic flavors of these five incredible super destinations? The picturesque scenery will leave you beaming as well. Explore a world of Indonesian culinary delights and travel treasures at the #WomderfulIndonesia hashtag on Instagram, and be sure to follow @wonderfulindonesia!