Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital, is a city that never sleeps. Its vibrant streets are a true reflection of its rich culture, and one such street that embodies this spirit is Jalan Sabang. This lively and bustling culinary haven is a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore the diverse flavours of Indonesian cuisine. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey down the delectable lanes of Jalan Sabang.
A Taste of Indonesia
Jalan Sabang is renowned for its incredible array of street food vendors. From morning until late into the night (but most of the stalls open around 5 in the evening), the street is alive with the sizzle of grills, the enticing aromas of spices, and the chatter of locals and tourists alike. Start your culinary adventure with a bowl of Soto Betawi, a traditional Jakarta beef soup. It’s a hearty and flavoursome dish, often served with rice and a mouth-watering blend of spices. If that doesn’t sound like your thing, then go for some Indonesian satay ayam (chicken). I mean meat skewers smothered in peanut sauce is everyone’s thing right? Of course unless you’re a vegetarian.
Culinary Highlights
Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih: Craving some fried rice with a twist? Look no further. This renowned eatery on Jalan Sabang serves up Nasi Goreng Kambing, or goat fried rice, which is a local delicacy. The perfectly cooked goat meat, combined with the rich flavours of fried rice, creates an unforgettable dish.
Mie Aceh: Don’t miss out on Mie Aceh, a spicy noodle dish hailing from Aceh, a region in Sumatra. You can choose your preferred level of spiciness and savour the unique blend of flavours and textures in this dish.
Bakso Arief: Bakso, a beloved Indonesian meatball soup, is an essential experience. Bakso Arief serves up bowls of this comforting soup with perfectly tender meatballs and a rich broth.
Kerak Telor: This is a traditional Betawi (indigenous Jakarta) dish with a long history dating back to the 17th century. It was initially created as a humble, filling snack for labourers and traders. The core of Kerak Telor is glutinous rice, chicken or duck eggs, dried shrimp, salt, and a mixture of spices that includes shallots, garlic, candlenuts, and coriander. It’s an exquisite blend of textures and flavours. The most fascinating thing probably is the manner in which it is prepared. It is truly a sight to behold.
Sweet Endings
After indulging in savoury delights, refresh your palate with Es Podeng. This traditional Indonesian dessert features shaved ice topped with various colourful toppings and sweet syrups. It’s a delightful way to end your culinary journey on a sweet note. Another sweet treat you absolutely need to try is Klepon. You’ll see this splashed all over the city in different (usually more modern) forms such as a klepon cake from McDonald’s or klepon Swiss roll, but the original is a little rice cake ball that essentially consists of pandan, coconut and palm sugar. A sure hit combo!
Cultural Atmosphere
Beyond the culinary treasures, Jalan Sabang offers a glimpse into local life. The warm and welcoming nature of the street vendors and the diverse crowd create a cultural atmosphere that’s uniquely Jakarta.
Jalan Sabang is a testament to the culinary diversity and vibrancy of Jakarta. The street’s bustling atmosphere and the tantalising scents wafting through the air make it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty bowl of Soto Betawi, exploring the spiciness of Mie Aceh, or cooling down with Es Podeng, the culinary journey along Jalan Sabang is bound to leave you with a deep appreciation for Indonesian cuisine and culture. So, when you find yourself in Jakarta, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this enchanting street and savour its rich flavours.
