Indonesian

Growing up in Indonesia, few things felt as comforting as a bowl of bubur kacang ijo on a rainy afternoon. My mother would often prepare this sweet mung bean porridge, filling the kitchen with the aroma of simmering coconut milk and pandan leaves. It was a humble dessert yet rich in flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Now, as I share this recipe on this site, I’m transported back to those cozy moments, hoping to bring the same warmth to your kitchen with this bubur kacang ijo recipe. History of Bubur Kacang Ijo Bubur kacang ijo is more than just a dessert; …

Growing up in Indonesia, tempeh was a staple in my household. It was versatile, affordable, and packed with nutrition. My mother always ensured we had fresh tempeh from the local market, which became a core ingredient in our meals. But while tempeh could be prepared in many ways—grilled, stir-fried, or added to stews—nothing was as special as Tempe Mendoan. The process of making Tempe Mendoan was almost ritualistic. My mother would carefully slice the tempeh into thin rectangular pieces, mix the batter with just the right blend of spices, and heat the oil to the perfect temperature. She always knew when to …

When it comes to Indonesian cuisine, few dishes are as universally loved and versatile as perkedel kentang. These golden, crispy potato fritters are a staple side dish, served alongside everything from soto (Indonesian soup) to nasi kuning (yellow rice) or even enjoyed as a snack. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, perkedel kentang is a dish that appeals to all ages and occasions. So, what makes perkedel kentang so special? The magic lies in its simplicity and the perfect balance of texture and flavor. With a soft, creamy interior encased in a lightly crispy shell, perkedel kentang offers a comforting …

Kering Tempe is an Indonesian dish with a special place in my heart. Growing up, my mother would often pack this dish for me when I lived in a dormitory in Yogyakarta. If the food prepared at the dorm wasn’t to my liking, I could always count on the delicious Kering Tempe to fill me up. The crispy fried tempeh, crunchy peanuts, and savory-sweet sticky sauce made it the perfect comfort food. I would pair it with rice, which instantly became my favorite meal. Kering means “crispy” in Indonesian, perfectly describing the dish’s texture. The tempeh is fried until golden …

If you’ve ever visited Indonesia, chances are you’ve encountered the vibrant and colorful world of street food. From savory skewers to sweet treats, Indonesian street food offers an endless variety of dishes representing the country’s rich culinary heritage. One dish that stands out for its balance of flavors and textures is Ketoprak. Originating from Jakarta, Ketoprak is a beloved street food snack that combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. Whether served as a light lunch or a filling dinner, Ketoprak is satisfying and nutritious. At its core, Ketoprak is a vegan salad. It blends chewy rice cakes (lontong) …

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s something warm, soothing, and flavorful—a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. For me, it’s always been vegan wonton soup. The steamy broth, tender dumplings, and fresh veggies create a perfect balance of lightness and heartiness. But as someone who’s embraced a plant-based lifestyle, I had to find a way to enjoy this classic dish without compromising on flavor. This recipe is a game-changer. It’s not just for vegans—it’s for anyone looking to enjoy a simple, wholesome meal full of flavor that comes together quickly. Whether …

Sayur Bening Bayam is a traditional Indonesian vegetable clear soup that is light, nutritious, and easy to prepare. It features spinach (Bayam) as the main ingredient, complemented by corn (or carrot) and simple seasonings. sayur = vegetable dish; bening = clear soup; bayam = spinach There are two unique things that you have to remember from this recipe: This dish tastes very clean and light, and I love it when my mother cooks it. When she does, I eat three plates of rice bowl. Yes, three; I didn’t write it incorrectly. Even though this can be eaten by itself, I …

Bakwan jagung, one of Indonesia’s most beloved snacks, is a crispy, savory-sweet delight that perfectly captures the essence of the nation’s culinary traditions. A staple in the wide variety of Indonesian gorengan (deep-fried snacks), bakwan jagung stands out for its golden crunch, sweet corn flavor, and versatility. Whether you enjoy it as a mid-afternoon treat or as part of a full meal, this deep-fried corn fritter delivers both taste and nostalgia. For Indonesians, gorengan is more than just food—it’s a cultural experience. From bustling street food stalls to family kitchens, gorengan snacks like bakwan jagung are integral to daily life. …

Terik tahu tempe is a traditional Indonesian dish that is accidentally vegan. It is rich in coconut milk, with a hint of sweetness and traditional Indonesian spices. If you are bored with your regular cooking method for tofu and tempeh, try this recipe. If you grow up eating Indonesian food, you should realize there are many types of curry, and terik is one of them. Other types of curry in Indonesia are gulai (view my jackfruit gulai recipe here), lodeh, and opor (I will share both recipes later in another post). “I have no idea what Terik Tahu Tempe is” …

Nestled in the heart of Java, Indonesia, lies Yogyakarta, a city renowned for its cultural heritage and delectable cuisine. Among its most iconic dishes is Gudeg Yogya, a sweet and savory jackfruit stew that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its unique taste and traditional preparation methods, Gudeg Yogya isn’t just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that tells the story of Javanese tradition, history, and philosophy. For many Indonesians, Gudeg Yogya is more than just food; it’s a taste of home. The dish has been passed down through generations, and each bite carries the warmth of …