Discover a variety of Central Javanese specialties that have authentic flavors and mouth-watering deliciousness.
Central Java, as one of the provinces in Indonesia that is rich in culture and tradition, also has a variety of typical culinary delights that are famous for their savory, sweet, and legit flavors.
These foods not only pamper the tongue, but are also part of the culinary heritage that is closely related to the lives of the people of Central Java. For those of you who want to explore the culinary riches of Central Java, here are 10 typical foods that you must try.
1. Gudeg
Gudeg is one of the Typical Central Javanese Food that is often associated with the city of Yogyakarta but actually originates from Central Java. Made from young jackfruit cooked with coconut milk and spices, gudeg has a unique sweet taste.
It is usually served with rice, free-range chicken, pindang eggs, tofu, tempeh, and krecek chili sauce. The delicious combination of savory and sweet flavors in gudeg makes it one of the popular culinary delights not only in Central Java but also throughout Indonesia.
Gudeg can be enjoyed in various Javanese restaurants or even brought as a souvenir in the form of practical canned gudeg.
2. Liwet Rice
Nasi Liwet Solo is a very famous specialty food in the city of Solo and its surroundings. This rice is cooked with coconut milk, making it savory and soft in texture. Usually served with side dishes such as shredded chicken, pindang eggs, tofu, tempeh, and of course fried chayote.
The savory taste of liwet rice combined with various side dishes provides an unforgettable eating sensation. You can find liwet rice in many food stalls or Solo restaurants spread throughout Central Java.
3. Soto Kudus
Soto Kudus is one of the most famous soto variants from Central Java, especially from the city of Kudus. Unlike soto from other regions, Soto Kudus is served in a small bowl and uses buffalo or chicken as its main ingredient. The clear and light broth tastes fresh, plus shredded meat, bean sprouts, and spring onions.
What is unique about Soto Kudus is the use of buffalo meat, which is a cultural heritage to respect the beliefs of the local community. This Soto is best enjoyed with warm rice and crackers as a complement.
4. Tahu Gimbal
Tahu Gimbal is a typical Semarang food consisting of fried tofu, lontong, eggs, and gimbal, which is a shrimp fritter that is fried dry. All of these ingredients are then doused with a savory and slightly spicy peanut sauce.
The savory taste of tofu, the crunchiness of gimbal, and the legit peanut sauce make Tahu Gimbal very popular. This food is very easy to find in various corners of Semarang city, especially in street stalls or open fields.
5. Fried Tempeh
Tempe Mendoan comes from Banyumas, Central Java. Mendoan means half-fried, so this tempeh has a soft and slightly oily texture. Tempe mendoan is usually served with sweet and spicy soy sauce, making it a delicious snack or side dish.
Tempe mendoan is not only popular in Banyumas, but is also often used as a favorite snack in various regions in Indonesia. Savory and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, makes this tempeh popular with various groups.
6. Garang Asem
Garang Asem is a typical Central Javanese food made from chicken wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with sour and spicy spices. The fresh sauce comes from a combination of starfruit or green tomatoes, as well as additional spices such as galangal, bay leaves, and chili.
This food has a distinctive taste: fresh, sour, and slightly spicy, very suitable to be eaten with warm rice. Garang Asem can usually be found in Central Javanese restaurants or simple food stalls in the Pekalongan area and its surroundings.
7. Wingko Babat
Wingko Babat is a typical food in the form of a cake made from grated coconut, glutinous rice flour, and sugar. This cake originates from Babat, Lamongan, but has become very popular in Semarang and various cities in Central Java.
Wingko Babat has a chewy texture and a sweet and savory taste from coconut. This cake is often used as a souvenir or snack when relaxing. Wingko Babat can be found in souvenir shops or street vendors around Semarang.
8. Notosuman Pancakes
Serabi Notosuman is one of the famous Solo snacks. This serabi is made from rice flour and coconut milk dough cooked on a stove with a special mold. Serabi Notosuman has a soft texture with a sweet and savory taste from coconut milk.
There are two popular serabi variants: plain serabi and serabi topped with chocolate or cheese. This snack is perfect as an afternoon snack or a typical Solo souvenir that should not be missed.
9. Semarang Spring Rolls
Lumpia Semarang is one of the most famous specialties in the city of Semarang. This lumpia has a crispy skin on the outside and is filled with a mixture of bamboo shoots, chicken, and shrimp. Lumpia Semarang can be served in two variants: fried or wet, depending on taste.
Its savory taste and crunchy texture make this lumpia a favorite at various events. Lumpia Semarang is also often used as a typical souvenir of this city and can be found in various food shops or street vendors.
10. Ongklok Noodles
Mie Ongklok is a typical food from Wonosobo, Central Java. This noodle is made from yellow noodles served with thick sauce from tapioca flour seasoned with spices. In addition to noodles, this dish is usually served with a mixture of cabbage, chives, and pieces of beef.
The uniqueness of Mie Ongklok lies in its thick broth and savory taste. This dish is perfect to enjoy during cold weather, especially since Wonosobo is known as a mountainous area with cool temperatures.
Central Java has a culinary wealth that not only pampers the tongue but is also full of culture and tradition. Semarang Special Food is one of the highlights, with dishes like lumpia and tahu gimbal being must-tries.
Each region in this province has unique and appetizing specialties, from heavy meals to light snacks. For those of you who have the opportunity to visit Central Java, don’t miss the chance to taste the 10 specialties above. Guaranteed, your culinary experience will be more complete and memorable!
