Lele Asap is a traditional dish from West Sumatra made from catfish that has been smoked until dry. This smoking process gives it a distinctive and appetizing aroma. Typically, Lele Asap is served with Minangkabau-style spicy condiments, such as red chili sambal (lado merah) or green chili sambal (lado hijau), and is enjoyed with warm steamed rice.
Taste
The taste of Lele Asap is rich and complex. Its smoky aroma delivers a unique flavor that blends harmoniously with spicy, salty, and slightly savory seasonings. The fish’s chewy and fibrous texture makes it an ideal pairing with West Sumatran sambal.
Ingredients
The main ingredient of Lele Asap is fresh catfish, smoked using specific types of wood to achieve its distinctive aroma. Complementary ingredients include spices such as chilies, shallots, garlic, salt, and lime juice. Some variations incorporate additional herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves to enhance the flavor.
Philosophy
Lele Asap embodies the values of West Sumatran local wisdom. The smoking process is a traditional method of preserving food, symbolizing the hard-working spirit of the Minangkabau people. This dish also reflects the community’s love for authentic, flavorful cuisine.
Price Range
Lele Asap is typically priced between IDR 20,000 and IDR 50,000 per serving, depending on the location and presentation.
Recommended Dining Spots
RM Sederhana Lele Asap
Address: Jl. By Pass Km. 7, Padang.
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by private vehicle or online transportation services.
Contact: +62 751 445667
Pondok Lado Ijo
Address: Jl. Khatib Sulaiman No.23, Padang.
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM.
How to Get There: Approximately 15 minutes from downtown Padang by public transportation.
Contact: +62 751 334556
Restoran Minang Jaya
Address: Jl. Sudirman No.15, Bukittinggi.
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.
How to Get There: Near Jam Gadang, reachable on foot from the Bukittinggi city center.
Contact: +62 752 887766.
Source image: pesonanusantara.co.id
