Indonesian Dishes to Try in Jakarta

Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital, is an exciting melting pot of cultures and cuisines. Its food scene ranges from street hawkers to fine dining establishments; here’s our guide to traditional Indonesian dishes you should sample during your time there.

 Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng, or fried rice, is an iconic Indonesian dish in Jakarta. It consists of steamed rice stir-fried with an assortment of vegetables, meats, and spices. It is often served with prawn crackers and pickles—you won’t miss its satisfying taste here! Every region may offer its own version, so don’t miss the chance to sample different variations!

Satay

Satay consists of grilled and skewered meat with a rich, spicy peanut sauce. Popular forms of Satay in Jakarta include chicken, beef, and lamb varieties accompanied by rice cakes or lontong, making it an ideal appetizer or delicious snack.

Soto Betawi

Soto Betawi, a traditional beef soup from Jakarta, is known for its luxurious coconut milk-based broth. It is full of tender beef, potatoes, tomatoes, herbs, and sometimes even shallots and lime for extra flavor! It is a comforting and hearty dish reflecting Jakarta’s culinary legacy!

Gado-Gado

Gado-Gado is an Indonesian salad featuring boiled vegetables, tofu, and tempeh in a creamy peanut sauce. It creates a balanced combination of fresh vegetables and the rich flavors of peanut sauce. Often served alongside crispy crackers (krupuk), Gado-Gado offers an assortment of textures and tastes for maximum enjoyment!

Kerak Telor

Kerak Telor is a classic Betawi snack with a savory omelet made of glutinous rice and eggs, typically garnished with fried shallots, shredded coconut, and chili for extra spice. Cooked over a charcoal fire, Kerak Telor boasts its distinctive smoky flavor and crunchy texture – offering an authentic Jakarta cuisine taste! Don’t miss it when visiting Jakarta.

Nasi Uduk

This fragrant rice dish made with coconut milk makes a satisfying and flavorful start to any day in Jakarta, often served for breakfast as part of its signature spread of side dishes such as chicken, eggs, tempeh and sambal sauces. Nasi Uduk provides a satisfying and flavorful beginning.

Asinan Jakarta

Asinan Jakarta is a delicious and refreshing salad with pickled vegetables and fruits served with spicy peanut sauce for an enjoyable culinary experience in Jakarta. This unique fusion of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors makes for a flavorful combination that creates an irresistibly appetizing dish, offering fresh produce while exploring Jakarta’s rich culinary culture.

Roti Bakar

Roti Bakar, or toasted bread, is an extremely popular snack in Jakarta. This delicious treat typically features sweet toppings like chocolate, cheese, or condensed milk before being toasted to perfection for a crunchy exterior and soft center – the perfect treat at any time of day!

Explore Jakarta’s Culinary Scene

Jakarta offers an abundance of traditional Indonesian dishes, showcasing Indonesian ingredients. Its cuisine reflects its cultural melting pot, from street food to hearty meals. Tasting these traditional dishes will give you a deeper appreciation of Jakarta’s dynamic culinary landscape.