Explore various delicious culinary specialties of Jogja, from Gudeg to Oseng Mercon, unique dishes that present a distinctive taste that is a must-try when visiting Yogyakarta.
Yogyakarta, a cultural city known as one of the favorite tourist destinations in Indonesia, not only pampers tourists with its cultural and historical charm, but also with a variety of appetizing culinary delights.
The richness of Jogja’s cuisine offers a variety of dishes that are not only delicious, but also carry long stories and traditions attached to each plate. Each dish has its own characteristics, from a distinctive sweet taste to spicy dishes that are ready to arouse the appetite.
Here are 10 Typical Jogja Foods that are worth trying when you visit:
1. Brongkos
Brongkos is a black soup dish rich in spices, and is one of Jogja’s legendary culinary delights. Brongkos soup is made from keluak, similar to rawon, but with the addition of coconut milk which gives it a savory and rich taste.
The filling of brongkos usually consists of beef, tofu, tempeh, and tolo beans, creating a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. Served with hot rice, brongkos is a dish that is perfect to enjoy anytime.
2. Bakmi Godhog
Bakmi godhog is a traditional boiled noodle from Jogja that is cooked in a traditional way using a clay stove or brazier. The chewy noodles are served in a savory free-range chicken broth, and are served with shredded chicken and vegetables. Its delicious taste makes Bakmi Godhog a favorite food to warm the body, especially at night.
3. Mi Lethek
Mi lethek are noodles made from cassava flour and have a distinctive cloudy color, as the name “lethek” suggests, meaning dull. These noodles have a chewy texture and are usually served fried or boiled.
Lethek noodles are often a souvenir choice because they are packaged in dry, long-lasting form, making them easy for tourists to take home.
4. Klathak Satay
Sate klathak is a goat satay that is different from satay in general because it is only seasoned with salt without the addition of soy sauce or peanut sauce.
The grilling process is also unique, using iron bars so that the meat is evenly cooked and produces a delicious taste. This dish is served with a savory curry sauce, providing an unforgettable taste sensation.
5. Kere Satay
Sate kere is a satay made from beef or goat fat processed with simple spices. Although it was once considered a “cheap” or cheap food, sate kere is now one of Jogja’s signature dishes that is loved by many people because of its savory and unique taste.
With the addition of sweet soy sauce and peanut sauce, this satay is suitable as a snack or accompaniment to the main meal.
6. Bakpia Pathuk
Bakpia Pathuk is a famous souvenir from Jogja. These small cakes filled with green beans have a crunchy texture on the outside and soft on the inside. Now, bakpia comes in various flavors such as chocolate, cheese, and durian, which further enriches the choices for culinary lovers.
It is no wonder that bakpia is always sought after by tourists who want to bring home the taste of Jogja.
7. Gudeg
Gudeg is a culinary icon of Jogja that should not be missed. Made from young jackfruit cooked in coconut milk for hours, gudeg has a distinctive sweet taste and soft texture.
Usually served with rice, free-range chicken, eggs, tofu, and krecek chili sauce, gudeg creates a combination of sweet and savory flavors that pamper the tongue. Every mouthful takes you to the heart of Jogja’s culinary culture.
8. Stir-fried Firecrackers
For spicy food lovers, oseng mercon is a challenge that should not be missed. This dish consists of beef tendon stir-fried with super spicy seasoning consisting of lots of cayenne pepper.
As the name suggests, oseng mercon is ready to provide a spicy “explosion” sensation in the mouth. In addition to beef tendons, oseng mercon is also often combined with offal such as tendons and liver, adding to the delicious texture and taste.
9. Cat Rice
Nasi kucing is a typical food of Jogja angkringan with a small portion, similar to cat food, hence the name. Nasi kucing is usually wrapped in banana leaves and served with simple side dishes such as tempeh sambal, anchovies, or stir-fried vegetables.
Although the portion is small, nasi kucing is a favorite because of its affordable price and is often enjoyed as a friend to hang out at night.
10. Tiwul
Tiwul is a typical food originating from Gunungkidul, made from dried cassava and processed into a rice substitute. During the colonial period, tiwul was a staple food when rice was hard to come by.
Nowadays, tiwul is a dish that is often enjoyed with simple side dishes such as salted fish or chili sauce. Its savory and slightly sweet taste makes tiwul a unique and appetizing dish. Jogja is a heaven for culinary connoisseurs, where every food holds stories and traditions rooted in local culture.
From the sweetness of gudeg to the spiciness of oseng mercon, the diversity of Typical Magelang Food not only satisfies the tongue but also provides an unforgettable culinary experience. So, when visiting Jogja, make sure you taste various typical foods that will make your trip even more memorable.
