Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Look no further than the vibrant and diverse cuisine of Indonesia. Bursting with bold flavors, aromatic spices, and mouthwatering dishes, Indonesian cuisine is a haven for food enthusiasts.
From sizzling street food to traditional family recipes, this Southeast Asian gem offers a treasure trove of unforgettable tastes. So, grab your apron and get ready to explore the best Indonesian recipes that will transport your taste buds to the enchanting archipelago. Get ready to indulge in the rich and diverse flavors of Indonesia, right in your own kitchen.
1. Vegan Indonesian Curry
This Vegan Indonesian Curry is a flavorful and creamy dish infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. The homemade curry paste adds a vibrant orange flavor, while the combination of tofu and green beans provides a satisfying texture.
Topped with chopped cilantro and fried shallots, this plant-based curry is a delicious and easy-to-make option for those looking to explore Indonesian cuisine.
2. Ayam Goreng
Ayam Goreng, or Indonesian fried chicken, is a beloved dish in Indonesian cuisine. The chicken is marinated with a combination of aromatic spices such as turmeric, garlic, shallot, ginger, galangal, bay leaves, and lemongrass, giving it a flavorful and savory taste.
The skin is crispy, while the meat remains tender and juicy. Ayam Goreng is typically served with warm rice, sambal, and raw vegetables, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal. It is a must-try dish for those who appreciate the flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
3. Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng is a traditional Indonesian dish that is considered a national favorite. It is a flavorful stir-fried rice dish that includes key ingredients like sweet soy sauce, shrimp paste, shallots, and garlic. The dish can be customized with additional ingredients such as chicken, prawns, or vegetables.
It is typically served with a fried or scrambled egg and accompanied by cucumber, tomato, or lettuce. Nasi Goreng is a popular dish in Indonesia and has also gained popularity in the Netherlands due to its colonial history.
4. Indonesian Chicken Curry
Indonesian Chicken Curry is a savory and fragrant dish that combines the flavors of Thai and Indian curries. The homemade curry paste, made with a variety of spices and aromatics, adds depth and richness to the dish.
The chicken is cooked in a mixture of coconut milk and broth, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. This recipe is a great introduction to Indonesian cuisine and is sure to satisfy curry lovers.
5. Indonesian Fried Noodles (Mie Goreng)
Indonesian Fried Noodles, also known as Mie Goreng, is a popular and versatile dish that can be made with various proteins and ingredients. It is a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared using store-bought ramen noodles. The key ingredient is Indonesian sweet soy sauce, which adds a rich and sweet flavor to the dish. This noodle dish is commonly enjoyed on birthdays in Indonesia, symbolizing good luck and long life.
Mie Goreng can be found everywhere in Indonesia, from restaurants to street food carts, each with their own unique twist. It is a sweet and savory alternative to traditional Chinese chow mein. Overall, Indonesian Fried Noodles (Mie Goreng) is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be customized to suit individual preferences.
6. Indonesian Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
Indonesian Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce is a must-try recipe for those seeking a flavorful and authentic Indonesian dish. The chicken is marinated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, then cooked over hot coals, resulting in a smoky and delicious flavor.
The homemade peanut sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess to complement the skewers. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and guarantees a delightful culinary experience.
7. Dadar Gulung
Dadar Gulung is a delightful Indonesian dessert that consists of green pandan-flavored pancakes filled with sweetened shredded coconut. The vibrant green color of the pancakes is visually appealing and the combination of the pandan and coconut flavors creates a deliciously tropical taste.
It is a popular street food snack in Indonesia and can be enjoyed as a tasty treat or eye-catching dessert. Dadar Gulung is a must-try for those looking to experience the flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
8. Sambal Chicken
Sambal Chicken, also known as ayam suwir pedas, is a delicious and easy Indonesian spicy chicken dish. Made with shredded chicken and a flavorful sambal sauce, this recipe offers a perfect balance of spiciness, sweetness, and tanginess.
It can be enjoyed with steamed rice and optional shrimp crackers for added crunch. Sambal Chicken is a great way to use up leftover chicken and is a must-try for those who love spicy Indonesian cuisine.
9. Kolak Pisang
Kolak Pisang is a popular Indonesian dessert soup made with ripe bananas, coconut milk, palm sugar, and pandan leaves. It is often enjoyed during Ramadan as an appetizer to break the fast.
The combination of sweet bananas, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant pandan leaves creates a delicious and comforting dessert. It can be served hot or cold, making it a versatile treat for any time of the year.
10. Indonesian Chicken Curry with Thai Basil
Indonesian Chicken Curry with Thai Basil, also known as Ayam Woku Kemangi, is a flavorful and aromatic dish bursting with the scents of herbs and spices.
The curry features tender chicken cooked in a fragrant spice paste, infused with the citrusy flavors of lemongrass and ginger. Thai sweet basil adds a sweet and anise-like aroma to the dish. This quick and easy recipe is a delightful introduction to Indonesian cuisine.
11. Ongol Ongol Tepung Kanji
Ongol Ongol Tepung Kanji is a popular Indonesian snack with a soft and bouncy texture. Made with tapioca starch and cornstarch, it is lightly sweetened with palm sugar syrup and rolled in grated coconut.
The addition of pandan leaves adds a delightful aroma. This simple recipe requires only six ingredients and can be cooked on the stove. It is a humble yet delicious treat loved by many locals.
12. Martabak Telur
Martabak Telur is a popular Indonesian street food that consists of a savory meat and egg filling wrapped in a crispy spring roll wrapper. It is traditionally served with saus cuka, a vinegar sauce. This Javanese-style martabak telur recipe offers a healthier twist on the traditional dish, without compromising on taste.
The combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and curry powder creates a flavorful filling that is complemented by the crunchy texture of the fried wrapper. Overall, Martabak Telur is a delicious and satisfying Indonesian recipe that brings the flavors of street food right to your kitchen.
13. Indonesian Peanut Saute
Indonesian Peanut Saute is a delicious and flavorful dish that features chicken, noodles, vegetables, and peanuts sautéed in a creamy peanut sauce. The sauce is made with chicken broth, creamy peanut butter, sriracha, honey, soy sauce, fresh minced ginger, and garlic.
This recipe is a copycat version of the popular dish from Noodles and Company and has received high praise, even being compared favorably to the original. The combination of the creamy peanut sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables creates a satisfying and tasty meal. Overall, Indonesian Peanut Saute is a must-try recipe for anyone who enjoys Indonesian cuisine or is a fan of peanut-based dishes.
14. Mie Goreng Jawa
Mie Goreng Jawa is a delicious and popular Indonesian dish that is enjoyed by many. It is a stir-fried noodle dish made with yellow egg noodles, shrimp (or other protein options), leeks, cabbage, tomatoes, and a combination of flavorful sauces such as kecap manis and soy sauce.
The dish is known for its spicy, aromatic, and savory flavors, with a hint of sweetness from the kecap manis. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized with different types of noodles, proteins, and vegetables. Overall, Mie Goreng Jawa is a must-try Indonesian dish for those looking to experience the authentic flavors of the region.
15. Easy Sambal Balado
Easy Sambal Balado is a traditional Indonesian chili sauce made with shallots, garlic, red chili, tomato, cooking oil, lime juice, sugar, and optional kaffir lime leaves. It can be made using a food processor for convenience.
The sambal has a spicy, tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness from the sugar. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Overall, Easy Sambal Balado is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a kick to any dish.
16. Ayam Rica-rica
Ayam Rica-rica is a spicy and savory chicken dish from North Sulawesi, Indonesia. It is known for its vibrant red color and intense chili flavor. The dish is made with a combination of red chilies and ginger, giving it a fiery kick.
The chicken is seared until golden brown and then cooked with a flavorful spice paste, lemongrass, tomato, and a hint of brown sugar. The dish is garnished with thinly sliced lime leaves for added aroma. Ayam Rica-rica is a must-try for those who enjoy spicy foods and want to experience the bold flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
17. Seroendeng
Seroendeng is a delicious Indonesian condiment that adds a crispy and savory touch to various dishes. It is a combination of peanuts, coconut, spices, and other flavorful ingredients. This versatile topping can elevate the taste of noodles, rice, vegetables, curries, and stews.
Seroendeng is not spicy, making it kid-friendly, but some may add chili pepper for an extra kick. It can also be enjoyed as a snack on its own. Overall, Seroendeng is a must-have pantry item for those who appreciate the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
18. Stir-Fried Rice Noodles
Stir-Fried Rice Noodles, also known as Kuey Teow Goreng, is a popular Indonesian dish that is quick and easy to make. This recipe typically includes rice noodles, Chinese sausage, fishcakes, eggs, chives, beansprouts, and minced garlic.
The stir-fry sauce adds a delicious blend of flavors with its combination of kecap manis, dark soy sauce, thin soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, sugar, and white pepper. The dish is versatile, allowing for various fillings such as shrimp or cockles. Overall, Stir-Fried Rice Noodles is a flavorful and satisfying Indonesian recipe.
19. Opor Ayam Kuning
Opor Ayam Kuning is a traditional Indonesian dish that features chicken simmered in a flavorful blend of turmeric, coconut milk, and aromatic spices. This dish is often enjoyed during special occasions, particularly Eid, and is a beloved part of Indonesian cuisine.
The vibrant yellow color and fragrant aroma make it an enticing choice for those looking to explore the flavors of Indonesia. Whether served with steamed rice or as part of a larger feast, Opor Ayam Kuning is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the country.
20. Acar Ketimun
Acar Ketimun is a refreshing Indonesian pickle made with cucumber, carrots, shallots, and Thai chilies. It is seasoned with white vinegar, salt, and sugar, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
This condiment adds a refreshing hint to any dish and can be served with fried rice, satay, or traditional Indonesian soup. It is easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Overall, Acar Ketimun is a delicious and versatile addition to any Indonesian meal.
