Savory / Umami

Tahu tempe bacem is a humble yet iconic dish deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Yogyakarta and Central Java, Indonesia. Known for its harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish epitomizes the rich cultural heritage of Javanese cuisine. At its core, tahu tempe bacem showcases the ingenious use of simple, affordable ingredients like tofu and tempeh, which are transformed into a flavorful delight through a unique cooking technique called bacem. This dish holds a special place in the hearts of many Indonesians, often evoking memories of home-cooked meals and bustling traditional markets. A Dish Steeped in Tradition …

Most people probably know about Indonesian mie goreng from the instant brand Indomie. This recipe is the classic version of that noodle. Vegan mie goreng is a dish that will please everyone in the family. Crunchy vegetables, chewy noodles, sweet sticky sauce—what’s not to like? It’s easy to make on a weeknight and delicious enough to serve anyone. So what exactly is mie goreng? “Mie” in Indonesia is noodle, and “goreng” means fried, so “mie goreng” is a fried noodle. This Indonesian food is heavily influenced by Chinese cuisine but has a definite Indonesian taste. One key differentiator is incorporating …

Satay, or “sate” as it is widely known in Indonesia, is a beloved grilled skewer dish that has captured Southeast Asia’s hearts (and taste buds). Traditionally made with meat, satay is known for its smoky aroma, tender bites, and rich, flavorful peanut sauce. However, as plant-based diets gain popularity, vegan mushroom satay has emerged, offering a modern twist on this iconic meal. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, vegan mushroom satay has become a favorite among vegans and omnivores. It retains the essence of traditional satay while showcasing mushrooms’ versatility and culinary potential. Let’s dive into the fascinating world …

Indonesian cuisine is a celebration of vibrant flavors, complex textures, and unique culinary techniques that are a testament to the rich history and diverse culture of the Indonesian archipelago. Pepes Tahu is a beloved and flavorful choice among the many dishes representing this colorful food culture. Pepes Tahu, which translates to “steamed tofu in banana leaves,” combines tofu with a fragrant mixture of herbs, spices, and seasonings, all wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors and reflects the ingenuity of Indonesian cooking in its simplest and most delicious form. …

If you’re not from Indonesia—specifically West Java—there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of sauté leunca. This dish, featuring the unique vegetable leunca, is a hidden treasure of Indonesian cuisine. Beloved by locals but relatively unknown outside Indonesia, sauté leunca showcases the essence of Sundanese cooking, emphasizing fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and simple preparation methods. As an Indonesian living in Singapore, I often crave the flavors of home. Among the many dishes I miss, sauté leunca holds a special place in my heart. While Singapore is geographically close to Indonesia, many Indonesian vegetables, including leunca, are not widely available here. …

Few dishes have the universal appeal and emotional connection of a good bowl of chicken soup. Whether it’s a comforting remedy during cold weather or a nostalgic childhood taste, chicken soup is special in culinary traditions worldwide. But what if you’ve embraced a vegan lifestyle and thought you’d have to leave this beloved dish behind? Enter vegan chicken soup, a plant-based twist on the classic that promises all the original’s warmth, flavor, and satisfaction—without compromising your values. Before going vegan, chicken soup was one of my go-to comfort foods. The fragrant aroma of broth simmering with garlic, onion, and tender …

Indonesian sambal is more than just a spicy chili paste—it’s a culinary icon embodying the essence of Indonesia’s vibrant food culture. Renowned for its bold and layered flavors, sambal plays a starring role in the Indonesian dining experience. It’s a staple on almost every archipelago table, from humble street food stalls to elaborate family feasts. At its core, sambal is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients painstakingly combined to create a condiment that’s as versatile as it is flavorful. Among the many types of Indonesian sambal, Sambal Goreng stands out for its rich and complex flavor profile. With its perfect …