Indonesia is a country rich in culture, history, and, most importantly, food. With more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia boasts a diverse culinary heritage shaped by various regions, traditions, and influences. Food is an integral part of Indonesian daily life, and locals take immense pride in their traditional dishes. In this article, we will explore the favorite foods by local Indonesians, highlighting the most loved dishes, national favorites, and popular street foods that define the country’s culinary identity.

What is the Most Favorite Food in Indonesia?

Indonesians love their food, and choosing a single favorite is challenging. However, Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice) stands out as one of the most beloved dishes. This flavorful and aromatic fried rice is a staple in many households and street food stalls. The dish is commonly prepared with a mix of rice, sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), garlic, shallots, eggs, chicken, shrimp, and topped with fried shallots and crackers.

Nasi Goreng is not only popular in Indonesia but has also gained international recognition. It is often regarded as Indonesia’s national dish due to its widespread popularity and variations found in different regions. This dish is an essential part of the favorite foods by local Indonesians, making it a must-try for visitors.

What are the 5 National Dishes of Indonesia?

Indonesia has officially recognized five national dishes that represent the country’s culinary diversity:

1. Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)

Nasi Goreng is a simple yet flavorful Indonesian fried rice dish. To make it, start by heating oil in a pan and sautéing garlic, shallots, and chili. Add pre-cooked rice and stir-fry with sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), shrimp paste (optional), and a protein of choice like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Scramble an egg into the mixture and continue stirring until everything is well combined. Serve with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a fried egg on top for an authentic Indonesian experience. As mentioned earlier, Nasi Goreng is the go-to dish for many Indonesians, enjoyed at any time of the day.

2. Rendang

Rendang is a slow-cooked, caramelized beef dish with a rich coconut milk and spice blend. To prepare it, blend shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, and lemongrass into a smooth paste. Sauté the paste in a pot, then add beef chunks and cook until browned. Pour in coconut milk and add cinnamon, star anise, kaffir lime leaves, and turmeric. Simmer on low heat for several hours until the beef is tender, and the sauce thickens into a dry, aromatic coating. Serve with steamed rice.

Originally from Padang, Sumatra, Rendang is a slow-cooked beef dish rich in coconut milk and spices. It is known for its tender texture and bold flavors, often served during special occasions and traditional ceremonies. CNN once named Rendang the “World’s Most Delicious Food.“

3. Sate (Satay)

Sate is Indonesian-style skewered and grilled meat served with a flavorful peanut sauce. To make it, marinate diced chicken, beef, or lamb in a mixture of garlic, coriander, turmeric, and soy sauce for at least an hour. Thread the meat onto bamboo skewers and grill over charcoal until golden brown. For the peanut sauce, blend roasted peanuts, garlic, palm sugar, and lime juice, then cook until smooth. Serve the skewers with the sauce and rice cakes (lontong) for an authentic touch.

Sate is a popular Indonesian dish consisting of skewered and grilled meat, usually served with a rich peanut sauce. Variations of sate include Sate Ayam (chicken satay), Sate Kambing (goat satay), and even Sate Padang (spicy satay from Padang).

4. Soto

Soto is a comforting Indonesian soup made with a fragrant broth and tender meat. To prepare Soto Ayam (chicken soup), boil chicken with lemongrass, bay leaves, and ginger until tender. Remove the chicken, shred it, and strain the broth. Sauté a spice paste of garlic, turmeric, and shallots, then add it back to the broth. Serve with rice vermicelli, bean sprouts, boiled eggs, and a squeeze of lime. Top with fried shallots and crispy emping crackers for added texture.

Soto is a traditional Indonesian soup made with broth, meat (chicken or beef), and various spices. There are many types of soto, such as Soto Betawi (from Jakarta) and Soto Ayam (chicken soup). It is commonly enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch.

5. Gado-Gado

Gado-Gado is a healthy and flavorful Indonesian salad with a rich peanut sauce. To make it, blanch or steam vegetables like cabbage, bean sprouts, and green beans. Add sliced tofu, tempeh, and boiled eggs. For the sauce, blend roasted peanuts, garlic, chilies, tamarind, and palm sugar, then cook until thick. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the salad and serve with prawn crackers and a side of rice cakes (lontong). This Indonesian salad features boiled vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and boiled eggs, all topped with a delicious peanut sauce. It is a popular choice among vegetarians and a healthy yet satisfying dish.

These five national dishes are a fundamental part of the favorite foods by local Indonesians and are a must-try for anyone visiting the country.

What is the Most Popular Street Food in Indonesia?

Street food is a crucial part of Indonesian culture. From bustling markets to small roadside vendors, locals enjoy a variety of street foods that cater to different tastes. One of the most popular street foods is Martabak.

Martabak (Sweet & Savory Pancakes)

Indonesian Martabak comes in two varieties:

• Martabak Manis (Sweet Martabak): A thick, fluffy pancake filled with chocolate, cheese, peanuts, or condensed milk.
• Martabak Telur (Savory Martabak): A crispy stuffed pancake filled with eggs, minced meat, and spices, served with pickles.

Other famous street foods include:

• Bakso (Meatball Soup) – A comforting bowl of meatballs served in a flavorful broth with noodles.
• Siomay – A type of steamed dumpling served with peanut sauce, similar to dim sum.
• Pempek – A fish cake from Palembang, served with a sweet and tangy vinegar-based sauce.
• Gorengan – Fried snacks like tempeh, tofu, and bananas, are commonly sold by street vendors.
• Ketoprak – A dish made of tofu, rice cake, and bean sprouts, served with peanut sauce.

Street food in Indonesia is affordable, delicious, and an integral part of the favorite foods by local Indonesians.

Regional Indonesian Delicacies

Each region in Indonesia has its own specialty, making the country’s food scene incredibly diverse. Here are a few must-try regional dishes:

• Ayam Betutu (Bali) – A slow-cooked chicken dish rich in Balinese spices.
• Mie Aceh (Aceh) – Spicy Acehnese noodles with a thick curry-like broth.
• Coto Makassar (Sulawesi) – A beef soup with a peanut-based broth.
• Gudeg (Yogyakarta) – A sweet stew made of young jackfruit cooked in coconut milk.
• Babi Guling (Bali) – Balinese-style roasted suckling pig.
• Tinutuan (Manado) – A hearty vegetable porridge.

Indonesian Desserts and Beverages

Indonesia is not only famous for its savory dishes but also for its delicious desserts and beverages.

Traditional Indonesian Desserts:

• Es Cendol – A cold dessert drink made with green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar.
• Klepon – Sweet rice balls filled with palm sugar and coated with grated coconut.
• Dadar Gulung – A green pancake roll filled with sweet coconut and palm sugar.
• Es Teler – A tropical fruit cocktail with coconut milk and condensed milk.
• Lapis Legit – A layered spice cake popular during festive occasions.

Popular Indonesian Drinks:

• Kopi Luwak – The famous (and expensive) civet coffee from Indonesia.
• Teh Botol – Sweet bottled jasmine tea, a favorite refreshment for locals.
• Bajigur – A warm drink made from coconut milk, palm sugar, and ginger.
• Es Kelapa Muda – Fresh young coconut water served with ice.

Where to Try Authentic Indonesian Food?

For the best local food experience, visit the following places:

• Jakarta – Try Soto Betawi and Nasi Uduk.
• Yogyakarta – Famous for Gudeg and Bakpia.
• Bali – Enjoy Babi Guling and Lawar.
• Medan – Known for Bika Ambon and Durian Pancake.
• Bandung – Try Batagor and Surabi.

Conclusion

The favorite foods by local Indonesians showcase the country’s rich culinary diversity. From national dishes like Nasi Goreng and Rendang to the vibrant street food culture featuring Martabak and Bakso, Indonesia offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. Whether you’re enjoying a comforting bowl of Soto or indulging in sweet Es Cendol, every bite tells a story of tradition, culture, and love for food.

For more about Indonesian cuisine, visit Indonesia Travel and start planning your foodie adventure today!