Traditional dishes from North Kalimantan, with their authentic flavors, are perfect to complement your holiday full of delicious experiences.
North Kalimantan, although a relatively new province in Indonesia, boasts a rich culinary heritage that is as captivating as other regions. This province is known for its variety of dishes that highlight fresh seafood and traditional local preparations.
Each dish has a unique character, rich flavor, and reflects the cultural wealth of the area. Here are 10 traditional dishes from North Kalimantan that you must try.
1. Tumis Kapah: Stir-fried Clams That Tempt the Taste Buds
Tumis Kapah originates from Tarakan and uses kapah clams as its main ingredient. The clams are stir-fried with savory and fresh seasonings, then served with a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavor. This dish is perfect as a side with warm steamed rice or as a snack on its own.
2. Kepiting Soka: Crispy Soft-Shelled Crab
Kepiting Soka is one of the signature dishes from Tarakan and Tanjung Selor. The crabs are cooked when they are still soft after molting and are then deep-fried until crispy or cooked in a sweet and sour sauce.
As an example of Typical North Kalimantan Food, the savory flavor and tender texture make Kepiting Soka a favorite among tourists.
3. Lawa: A Royal Dish from the Kingdom of Bulungan
Lawa was once reserved for the royal family of Bulungan. This dish combines fresh vegetables like cucumber and seaweed with roasted coconut seasoning and giant freshwater prawns (udang galah). Lawa has a fresh, light flavor, making it perfect for hot weather.
4. Tudai: Thick Shellfish with Spicy Sambal
Tudai is a type of shellfish commonly found in Tanjung Selor, characterized by its thick meat and black-orange shell. The preparation is simple: it is boiled and served with a spicy sambal. Tudai is often featured at traditional ceremonies or served at local restaurants in North Kalimantan.
5. Nasi Udang: A Simple Yet Flavorful Combination
In Malinau Regency, Nasi Udang is a favorite local dish. Fresh shrimp is deep-fried until crispy and served with soft white rice and spicy sambal. Its simple preparation doesn’t diminish its delicious taste, making it a top choice for seafood lovers.
6. Dodol Cempedak: Sweet and Fragrant Delight
Dodol Cempedak is a traditional snack made from cempedak fruit, which has a fragrant aroma and a soft texture similar to durian. The process of making dodol requires patience, but the result is rewarding. This snack is perfect as a souvenir due to its unique taste and long shelf life.
7. Sop Kapurung Malinau: A Combination of Spicy Broth and Tapioca Balls
Sop Kapurung is a unique dish from Malinau that combines a yellow spiced broth with tapioca balls. The broth is made with lemongrass, tamarind, chilies, and fish like snakehead or catfish, and is served with water spinach, fried peanuts, and corn. Its savory and fresh flavor makes it an enticing dish.
8. Sate Temburungun: A Different Taste of Shellfish
Sate Temburungun is made from a special type of shellfish found in North Kalimantan. The shellfish is boiled until cooked, skewered, and grilled like satay.
It is served with either peanut sauce or a yellow broth. The chewy texture of the shellfish combined with the rich seasonings creates a unique flavor experience.
9. Nasi Subut: Color and Flavor in a Plate of Rice
Nasi Subut has a unique purplish hue, as it is mixed with spices from Tanjung Selor. This dish is served with a variety of accompaniments like shrimp, stingray fish, satay, or tudai. With its distinct flavor and eye-catching presentation, Nasi Subut is a must-try dish.
10. Sate Ikan Pari: Savory Flavor with a Touch of Honey
Sate Ikan Pari is a typical dish from Tanjung Selor that uses stingray fish as the main ingredient. The stingray is grilled with a blend of spices, sweet soy sauce, and honey, creating a sweet and savory combination. The soft texture of the stingray adds to the appeal of this dish.
Why You Should Try North Kalimantan’s Cuisine?
The traditional food of North Kalimantan offers authentic flavors that make the most of fresh, local ingredients, especially seafood. These dishes are not only mouthwatering but also reflect the culture and local wisdom of the people.
From Tumis Kapah to Sate Ikan Pari, each dish brings you closer to the natural wealth and traditions of North Kalimantan.
So, if you’re planning to visit North Kalimantan, make sure to try the dishes listed above. Don’t forget to bring some as souvenirs for family and friends back home.
Enjoy the rich flavors of Typical Central Kalimantan Food and experience the unique culinary culture of Indonesia that is unlike any other.