Indonesian Food Journey

Wondering what to eat in Jakarta? Indonesia’s bustling capital is famous for its delicious street food and unique traditional dishes. Here are 10 of the best traditional foods in Jakarta you shouldn’t miss during your trip. Nasi Uduk (Indonesia coconut rice dish) 1. Nasi Uduk –  Nasi Uduk is one of Jakarta’s most popular traditional dishes and a true reflection of Betawi cuisine. This fragrant rice is cooked in coconut milk, lemongrass, bay leaves, and spices , giving it a rich aroma and creamy flavor that makes it more special than plain steamed rice. The texture of nasi uduk is fluffy yet slightly sticky , absorbing the subtle sweetness of coconut milk and the warmth of spices like cinnamon and cloves. It is commonly served with side dishes such as fried chicken, tempeh, omelet, sambal, fried peanuts, and crispy shallots , making it a complete and filling meal often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch. What makes nasi uduk unique is its versatility—you can find it in humble stre...

  A Peaceful Escape Surrounded by Nature About a 30-minute drive from the heart of Yogyakarta, Kandang Ingkung sits in a quiet area with nothing but nature around. The restaurant has table seating, but we chose to sit on a Japanese-style tatami area. Hearing birds chirp as we ate made us completely lose track of time. It was the perfect spot to stretch out, relax, and enjoy a peaceful meal away from the city hustle. This is my table the traditional way of cooking A Unique Bamboo Cooking Method One of the most special things about Kadang Ingkung is their traditional cooking method : hollowing out bamboo and filling it with chicken, coconut milk, and other ingredients, then slow-cooking it over charcoal. The aroma of the bamboo infuses the chicken, which comes out tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Watching this unique cooking process alone is a treat! Ingkung Ayam The Charm of Ingkung Ayam “ Ingkung Ayam ” is a whole chicken simmered with special spices. At Kandang Ingkung, the...

Mie Ayam (Indonesian Chicken Noodle) If you’ve ever walked through Indonesian streets in any city of, you’ve probably seen Mie Ayam carts everywhere. These chicken noodles aren’t just food—they’re a daily comfort for locals. Mie Ayam & Bakso (meat balls) serve with Chicken broth The dish is simple but delicious: springy noodles tossed with garlic and soy sauce, topped with seasoned chicken, and sometimes a few greens. Many places serve it with a small bowl of clear chicken broth, and you can even add meatballs, deep-fried wontons, or chili if you like a little kick! Mie Ayam comes from Chinese-style noodles brought to Indonesia, but locals made it their own with sweet soy sauce and fried shallots. Each region has its twist—Jakarta’s is darker and sweeter, Solo’s is lighter, and Wonogiri adds giant meatballs that always impress. You can imagine—same name, but every city gives you a new taste to try. topping chili sauce for extra kick! For Indonesians, eating Mie Ayam isn’t just a...

 In the heart of Yogyakarta’s bustling streets, a unique aroma fills the air. Locals and curious travelers gather around humble street stalls, waiting for a cup of coffee unlike any other. This drink is called Kopi Jos — a bold creation where a piece of glowing hot charcoal is dropped directly into black coffee. But beyond the spectacle, Kopi Jos carries a fascinating story of tradition, resilience, and Javanese culture. History Kopi Jos is believed to have originated in the 1960s in Yogyakarta, Central Java, Indonesia. The drink was popularized by coffee stall owners, known as angkringan vendors , who wanted to create something both affordable and distinctive. The name “Jos” comes from the sizzling sound when the hot charcoal hits the coffee, instantly releasing smoke and steam. Over time, this became a signature identity of Yogyakarta’s night markets. Preparation The preparation of Kopi Jos begins with brewing strong black coffee, often sweetened with sugar. Then, a small piece...