Aurora K Explore the culinary riches of Banten from duck satay to Tangerang laksa, authentic dishes full of spices and unique flavors.
Banten Province, in addition to holding a rich history, also offers a variety of culinary delights that are so distinctive and diverse.
Traditional cuisine from the westernmost region of Java Island is not only appetizing, but also contains local wisdom and spices that make each dish full of Nusantara flavors. Here are ten typical Banten foods that you must try when visiting this province.
1. Cibeber Duck Satay
The first culinary is duck satay which is typical of the Cibeber area. Duck meat is chosen because of its chewier texture and denser fibers compared to chicken meat, creating a unique taste.
This duck meat is marinated in a strong spice mix, then grilled and served with soy sauce or peanut sauce. The savory taste and tempting roasted aroma make this Cibeber duck satay different from other satays.
2. Serang Milkfish Satay
Serang’s signature milkfish satay is a dish made from boneless milkfish. The ground and seasoned fish meat is put back into the milkfish skin before being grilled, resulting in a savory taste and soft texture without worrying about bones.
This milkfish satay is often a must-buy souvenir from Serang City and is famous for its distinctive taste.
3. Pepper Angel
Angeun Lada is a typical Banten soup dish that usually uses buffalo or beef. The seasoning of walang leaves is the key to the strong aroma and distinctive taste of this dish.
Although the name means “spicy vegetables,” this dish relies more on meat as its main ingredient. Angeun Lada is usually present at family events or celebrations, especially in the Pandeglang and Lebak areas, making it a dish that is always awaited.
4. Rabeg, a specialty of Cilegon
Rabeg is a dish from Cilegon that is thick with spices such as cardamom and star anise. Generally, rabeg is made with goat, beef, or buffalo meat cooked in a thick sauce without coconut milk, creating a sweet and savory taste similar to Middle Eastern cuisine.
This dish is perfect to eat with warm rice and a sprinkling of fried onions, making it a delicious choice for lunch.
5. Grilled Rice with Marrow
Nasi bakar sumsum-sum is a dish that uses cow or buffalo spinal cord, creating a very savory taste and soft texture to the rice.
The rice and marrow are then wrapped in banana leaves and grilled until fragrant. This dish is usually served with anchovies, shredded chicken, and peanut sauce to complete its deliciousness.
6. Sticky Rice with Bintul
Ketan Bintul is a traditional snack that was once loved by the Sultan of Banten. Made from sticky rice that is steamed and pounded until soft, this sticky rice is then served with grated coconut and serundeng.
The soft taste of sticky rice combines perfectly with the savory taste of coconut, making it an energy-dense food that is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
7. Jojorong Cake
Jojorong cake is a traditional cake from Banten with a soft texture and sweet taste from brown sugar. Served in a takir container or small bowl made of banana leaves, Jojorong is a beautiful and delicious snack.
The light sweetness of brown sugar and the softness of rice flour make this cake suitable as a dessert or afternoon snack.
8. Angel Pepper
Angeun Lada is often present at big celebrations and traditional events in Banten, especially in Pandeglang and Lebak. Using walang leaves, this dish is known for its strong and spicy aroma and taste.
Although it has been mentioned, angeun lada deserves to be mentioned again because of its popularity as a mainstay dish of South Banten.
9. Tangerang Laksa
Laksa Tangerang is a typical dish consisting of vermicelli or noodles doused in savory coconut milk sauce. Different from other regional laksa, Laksa Tangerang has additional green beans and potatoes that add texture to this dish.
This laksa is usually served with pieces of chicken and eggs, creating a blend of soft yet savory flavors.
10. Cucur Cake
Kue Cucur is a typical Banten snack made from rice flour and brown sugar. Its round shape with a fibrous texture gives it a distinctive sweet and legit taste.
This cake is often found at traditional events and weddings as a symbol of sweetness in life, making it a traditional snack full of meaning. Banten’s culinary specialties offer a rich experience of Nusantara flavors.
From chewy duck satay to savory Tangerang laksa, these dishes reflect the local wisdom and richness of Banten’s culinary culture. Each dish brings its own uniqueness that creates a different taste sensation in every mouthful.
If you visit Banten, don’t miss the opportunity to taste these various specialties, including Typical Tangerang Food, which will definitely enrich your culinary tourism experience in this province.
