Explore a variety of iconic East Javanese dishes rich in spices and unique flavors, from soto Lamongan to satay Madura, for an unforgettable culinary experience.
East Java, with its rich culture and history, is also known for its mouth-watering cuisine. The province’s signature dishes offer a rich blend of flavors, from spicy to savory, reflecting the richness of local spices.
Each typical East Javanese food has its own uniqueness, making it a culinary destination that must be explored. Here are 10 typical East Javanese foods that you should try to experience the deliciousness and culinary richness of this region.
1. Soto Lamongan
Soto Lamongan is a legendary dish originating from Lamongan, East Java. What makes this soto special is the koya, a savory powder made from shrimp crackers and garlic. This koya gives a thick savory taste and adds to the deliciousness of the soto.
It is usually served with chicken or beef, as well as accompaniments such as boiled eggs, crackers, and sliced celery leaves. The koya added on top of the soto gives a savory sensation that is not found in other soto, making it a very alluring dish.
2. Malang Meatballs
Bakso Malang is a culinary specialty from Malang City which is very famous, not only in East Java, but throughout Indonesia.
What distinguishes Bakso Malang from ordinary meatballs is the variety of meatball types, such as tendon meatballs, egg meatballs, shrimp meatballs, fried meatballs, and meatballs.
This is one of the most popular Typical Malang Food offerings, showcasing the city’s unique take on this beloved Indonesian dish.
In addition, you can enjoy various accompaniments such as dumplings, siomay, tofu, lontong, and noodles. With a variety of complementary choices, Bakso Malang offers a very complete and satisfying combination of flavors.
3. Mixed Tofu
Tahu Campur is one of the famous dishes from Surabaya, which is perfect for those of you who love spicy and savory culinary. This dish consists of lettuce, bean sprouts, rice cakes, yellow noodles, fried tofu, and cassava lentho.
All of these ingredients are then doused with a savory and spice-rich beef broth. Tahu Campur has a fresh, savory, and spicy taste, and is rich in nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a lunch menu.
4. Rawon
Rawon is one of the oldest dishes in East Javanese culinary history, famous for its thick black sauce made from kluwek. The beef used is cooked for a long time until tender and served with bean sprouts, salted eggs, shrimp crackers, and white rice.
Rawon is not only famous in Surabaya, but also in various other areas in East Java. For example, Rawon Pasuruan is served with komoh satay as a complement. Rawon is a dish that is rich in flavor and very appetizing.
5. Rujak Cingur
Rujak Cingur is one of Surabaya’s culinary specialties consisting of various fresh vegetables and fruits, such as bean sprouts, water spinach, long beans, pineapple, and kedondong, mixed with tempeh, tofu, lontong, and cingur (cow’s nose).
All of these ingredients are then given peanut sauce mixed with petis to give a distinctive savory taste. Rujak Cingur is a refreshing and flavorful dish, with a touch of spicy and sweet that is appetizing.
6. Madurese Satay
Madura satay is a famous culinary dish from Madura Island, which is widely known throughout Indonesia. Made from grilled chicken or goat meat with spicy and savory peanut sauce, Madura satay has a distinctive taste.
The goat meat used gives a stronger taste, while chicken satay has a milder taste. Madura satay is usually served with rice or lontong, making it a complete and very satisfying dish. The uniqueness of Madura satay lies in the way it is served which reflects the local culture.
7. Madiun Pecel
Pecel Madiun is a typical dish from Madiun which consists of a mixture of vegetables such as spinach, papaya leaves, cassava leaves, and cucumber. These vegetables are boiled and mixed with raw lamtoro leaf seeds, then doused with savory and salty peanut sauce.
Pecel Madiun is also served with dry tempeh sambal goreng, coconut serundeng, and anchovy crackers, which add a rich flavor to this dish. Pecel Madiun has a fresh, savory, and slightly spicy taste, perfect for those of you who like healthy and delicious dishes.
8. Racing Rice Cake
Lontong Balap is a typical Surabaya food which is famous for its freshness and uniqueness. This dish consists of lontong, bean sprouts, fried tofu, lentho (cassava fritters), and chili sauce. Lentho made from rice beans and flour gives a different crunchy texture.
Lontong Balap is usually also served with shellfish satay, which is boiled shellfish served with spicy soy sauce and chili sauce. This dish is very delicious and satisfying, perfect as a filling lunch option.
9. Clover
Semanggi is a typical Surabaya dish served on a banana leaf plate. Semanggi consists of clover leaves, bean sprouts, and kale drizzled with sweet potato seasoning and hot chili sauce. Usually, semanggi is also served with uli crackers which adds to its deliciousness.
Semanggi has a fresh and spicy taste, making it a refreshing choice as a light meal or snack. This culinary is the right choice for those of you who want to enjoy traditional dishes with a unique taste.
10. Tahu Tek
Tahu Tek is a typical Surabaya dish consisting of fried tofu cut into small pieces, half-cooked French fries, bean sprouts, and shrimp crackers. All of these ingredients are doused with a special sauce made from petis, peanuts, chilies, and garlic.
The thick and savory seasoning provides a rich flavor, with the chewy texture of the tofu and shrimp crackers blending perfectly. Tahu Tek is often served as an afternoon snack or light meal, perfect to accompany your relaxing time.
East Java’s culinary specialties have a variety of mouth-watering flavors, with local ingredients rich in spices and flavors. Foods such as Soto Lamongan, Rawon, and Bakso Malang are not only delicious but also have a deep cultural and historical richness.
A Batu Culinary Tour is the perfect way to explore these iconic dishes and experience the flavors that define the region’s food heritage.
Each East Javanese specialty dish offers a unique and satisfying culinary experience, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy authentic and flavorful Indonesian cuisine.
