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A Guide to Indonesian Food

Feb 7 , 2012

With over 238 million people, Indonesia is a large country made up of over 17,500 islands. Like many other Asian countries, Indonesia is known for their spicy foods and unique tastes. When visiting Indonesia, be sure to have a taste for the spices and a liking for coconut.

Indonesia is a country located in southeast Asia. The country is composed of many different islands and is the fourth largest country in population in the entire world. There are more than 17,508 islands of various sizes. The food in Indonesia ranges from local specialties to something as simple as pizza. One thing is for sure, when visiting Indonesia, there is more than enough food to choose from. Here is a guide to the best and most unique Indonesian food.

Nutmeg: In the 1500's the small islands of Indonesia were the only place in the world to get nutmeg. This is one of the most unique spices in the world and Indonesia specializes in it. Indonesia is still famous for the nutmeg and there is no better place to get it.

Babi Guling: This is a type of roasted pig that is cooked to perfection. What makes Babi Guling stand out is the various local spices that it is stuffed with. It is then roasted in coconut water. It tastes best after being roasted over hot coals until the skin of the pig is crispy and very tasty.

Nasi: This simple rice is virtually the national dish of Indonesia. What can be done with the rice is what makes it so unique. Indonesians love to mix rice, meat, and vegetable together to make Nasi Campur. Rice can also be fried with meat and vegetables to get Nasi Goreng.

Bebek Betutu: Also known as Indonesian duck, Bebek Betutu is one of the favorites among visitors and locals alike. It is made with local duck that is stuffed with some of the best Indonesian spices. The duck is then roasted in banana leaves and cooked to perfection.

Rendang: This buffalo coconut curry originated from an ethnic group of Indonesia. It is applied to curried meat dishes and is most often served in ceremonial occasions. It is actually made of beef and slowly cooked with spices and coconut milk.

Es Apokat: What better way to finish a great meal than with some tasty desert? This avocado smoothie is covered with a healthy serving of chocolate sauce.

Es Campur: Another desert is this sweet soup, made of coconut, condensed milk, chewy jelly candies, and ice. This may seem rather unique, but be sure to try it for a taste that can not be experienced anywhere else.

Although science might say otherwise, we find that a cold beer is the best way to cool the mouth after a spicy meal, and there are many bars here that would agree.

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A Guide to Indonesian Food