TIMES AUSTRALIA, JAKARTA – Indonesia is renowned for its rich and diverse culinary heritage, offering an array of flavors that reflect the country's unique cultural mix. Whether you’re visiting Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, or any other region, experiencing its traditional dishes is a must. Here are 8 iconic Indonesian dishes you simply can’t miss during your travels.

1. Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng, or fried rice, is arguably Indonesia’s most famous dish. Made with rice stir-fried in a savory blend of spices, it often features ingredients like chicken, shrimp, vegetables, and a fried egg on top. This dish is a staple in Indonesia, loved by locals and tourists alike. Found everywhere from street food stalls to high-end restaurants, Nasi Goreng is typically priced between IDR 15,000 to IDR 40,000.

2. Sate (Satay)

Sate consists of skewered and grilled meat served with a savory peanut sauce. The meat—which can be chicken, beef, lamb, or fish—is grilled to perfection, offering a smoky, flavorful experience. Originally from Java, Sate is widely available and costs around IDR 20,000 to IDR 50,000 per portion.

3. Gado-Gado

Gado-Gado is a hearty salad of boiled vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and eggs, drizzled with a rich peanut sauce. Refreshing and nutritious, it’s often enjoyed as a light meal. This dish is commonly served in Jakarta and across Java, with prices ranging from IDR 20,000 to IDR 45,000.

4. Rendang

Rendang is a slow-cooked beef stew simmered in a spicy coconut milk sauce, made with a blend of aromatic spices. Known for its tender, flavorful meat, this dish hails from West Sumatra, a specialty of the Minangkabau people. A serving of Rendang typically costs IDR 35,000 to IDR 75,000.

5. Soto

Soto is a comforting soup made with meat (usually chicken or beef), vegetables, and rice noodles, cooked in a fragrant spiced broth. Regional variations such as Soto Betawi from Jakarta and Soto Lamongan from East Java offer distinct flavors. Soto can be found across Indonesia and is priced between IDR 20,000 to IDR 45,000.

6. Nasi Padang

Nasi Padang features steamed rice served with a variety of side dishes like fried chicken, rendang, sambal, and curries. Typically served family-style, it allows you to sample a variety of flavors in one meal. Originating from Padang in West Sumatra, Nasi Padang costs around IDR 15,000 to IDR 70,000, depending on the selection.

7. Bakso

Bakso is a beloved Indonesian meatball soup. Made with beef meatballs, it’s served in a savory broth alongside noodles, tofu, and vegetables. It’s a popular, quick, and satisfying meal enjoyed nationwide, particularly in Malang and Jakarta, with prices ranging from IDR 15,000 to IDR 35,000.

8. Ayam Betutu

Ayam Betutu is a Balinese delicacy made from chicken marinated in a mix of spices and herbs, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked to tender perfection. Often served with rice and sambal, this traditional dish from Bali costs between IDR 40,000 to IDR 80,000.

Indonesia’s culinary landscape is a vibrant fusion of flavors, each dish telling a unique story of its region. Whether you’re savoring the rich and tender Rendang or enjoying the refreshing Gado-Gado, these traditional dishes are a must-try. Embrace the richness of Indonesian dishes and make your culinary journey unforgettable. (*)