Aurora K The traditional cuisine of North Kalimantan is a rich tapestry of flavors and cultural heritage, offering an authentic and mouthwatering culinary experience.
Indonesia is celebrated for its diverse culture and cuisine, with each province showcasing its unique culinary treasures.
North Kalimantan, though a relatively new province, offers a variety of distinctive and flavorful dishes. From seafood to sweet treats, here are 10 traditional foods from North Kalimantan that you must try.
1. Tumis Kapah: Savory Clams with a Zesty Lime Twist
Tumis Kapah is a specialty from Tarakan made with kapah clams, a protein-rich mollusk. These clams are sautéed with spices, creating a savory and fresh flavor. A squeeze of lime adds a refreshing tang, making this dish perfect as a side or main course.
2. Soft-Shell Crab (Kepiting Soka): Crispy and Flavorful
Kepiting Soka is a popular delicacy in Tarakan and Tanjung Selor. These crabs have soft shells, harvested after molting, and are often deep-fried until crispy or cooked in a sweet and sour sauce. As an example of Typical North Kalimantan Food, this dish is a favorite among tourists and a must-try in North Kalimantan.
3. Lawa: A Royal and Healthy Dish
Originally reserved for the royal family of Bulungan, Lawa is made from fresh vegetables like cucumber and seaweed, mixed with roasted coconut and either freshwater prawns or king prawns. Its refreshing taste makes it ideal for hot weather.
4. Tudai: Meaty Clams with Bold Flavors
Tudai is a type of clam found abundantly in Tanjung Selor, recognized for its thick meat and black-orange shell. Usually boiled and served with spicy sambal, Tudai is a staple in special events and local eateries.
5. Nasi Udang: Simple Yet Flavorful Shrimp Rice
A signature dish of Malinau, Nasi Udang features fresh shrimp from pristine rivers. The shrimp is fried until crispy and served with steamed rice and spicy sambal. Its simplicity makes it a beloved choice for both locals and tourists.
6. Cempedak Dodol: Sweet and Fragrant
This sweet treat is made from cempedak, a fruit similar to jackfruit but with a stronger aroma and softer texture like durian. The labor-intensive process results in a fragrant, chewy dodol, making it a popular and affordable souvenir.
7. Sop Kapurung Malinau: A Savory and Refreshing Soup
Sop Kapurung is a unique soup from Malinau made with chewy sago balls and a rich yellow broth infused with spices like lemongrass, tamarind, and chili.
The broth is paired with snakehead fish or catfish, along with vegetables like water spinach, sweet corn, and roasted peanuts, creating a flavorful and refreshing dish.
8. Sate Temburungun: Unique Clam Skewers
Sate Temburungun is made from local clams that are boiled, skewered, and grilled like traditional satay. Served with peanut sauce or a spiced yellow gravy, the chewy texture of the clam meat makes this dish a crowd favorite.
9. Nasi Subut: Nutritious Purple Rice
Nasi Subut, a specialty of Tanjung Selor, stands out with its purple hue derived from natural spices. Typically served with a variety of side dishes like shrimp, satay, stingray, or Tudai clams, its unique taste and aromatic flavor make it a highly recommended dish.
10. Stingray Satay (Sate Ikan Pari): Sweet and Smoky Perfection
Sate Ikan Pari is a standout dish featuring tender stingray meat marinated with local spices and glazed with sweet soy sauce or honey. Grilled to perfection, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice or serves as a flavorful snack.
Why You Should Try North Kalimantan’s Traditional Cuisine
The traditional foods of North Kalimantan reflect the region’s rich natural resources and cultural heritage.
With a focus on seafood, these dishes offer fresh and authentic flavors. From Tumis Kapah to Cempedak Dodol, each dish tells a unique story, making them well worth exploring.
If you ever visit North Kalimantan, make sure to try one of these 10 dishes. Each bite of Typical Central Kalimantan Food brings you closer to the beauty of the region’s nature and the diversity of Indonesian culture. Don’t forget to bring some of these delicacies home as souvenirs to share with your loved ones!
