The tastes of Indonesia are sense-sational! From the delicious blend of spices that colour and flavour each meal, to the hot blend of sauces, chilies and rich textures of each dish, there is endless enjoyment when dining at an Indonesian table. The dining experience begins before dawn when householders travel to the local pasar (market) to buy fresh foods for the day. Although rice is the staple meal, eaten three times a day, the typical "rice table" has numerous tapas (smaller dishes), including nutritious soups, tofu salads, coconut and chilli sauces, that accompany the rice dish. Special ingredients include: bay leaves, sprouts, coconut milk, coriander, cumin, ginger, raw peanuts, rice wine vinegar, shallots, tumeric and more. Typical Indonesian dishes are served on banana leaves, and made in stir-fry, fried or sauteed. Roasting is common for meats and chickens.
Nasi Goreng (pictured above) is one of Indonesia's most popular dishes, served almost everywhere and eaten at all times of the day. Nasi Goreng, meaning "fried rice" is a delicious combination of foods, including mixed vegetables, tempe manis (sweet tempe), green beans, red or white rice, peanuts, sambal (chili), fried or boiled eggs, and fried coconut.
Nasi Campur (pictured left) is another Indonesian favourite made from a mix of fresh vegetables, including beans, corn and carrots, served with rice, fried egg, fried coconut, and served with fried banana and fried pineapple.
The two dishes pictured above and left are served at Yellow Flower Cafe, just up the main steps on Campuhan in Penestanan. This funky little cafe offers a unique and superb selection of organic Indonesian dishes, smoothies, and desserts.
Curry is another favourite dish, and one of the highlights of the Indonesian table. Although India is the birthplace of curry, Indonesians have perfected the art of cooking curry through their masterful blend of spices. There are many varieties of curry, including vegetarian, tofu, tempe, shrimp, chicken, and beef curry. The base is a blend of spices that are pulverized into a sauce. Foods are mixed together in coconut milk and left to simmer until the flavours blend throughout the curry. The artful blend of spices gives curry its distinct character, complexity and unique flavour.
Curry & BBQ tempe pictured left are served at Made's Warung, a small warung in Penestanan that boasts "The Best Food in Town".
A favourite choice for dessert at the Indonesian table is pisang goreng, a delicious dessert of fried bananas often served with sugar, cinnamon or even shredded coconut.
Now it's time to set your mouth ablaze with the unique flavours of Indonesia!
