Bengkulu’s traditional cuisine offers a unique and renowned taste that will leave you wanting more after trying it.
Bengkulu, a province on the western coast of Sumatra, is known for its rich culture and flavorful traditional dishes. The region’s culinary delights reflect a blend of local heritage and influences from neighboring areas, resulting in a distinct taste worth celebrating.
Using local ingredients, these special dishes from Bengkulu offer a culinary experience unlike any other. Curious about what local dishes you must try? Here’s the list.
1. Bagar Hiu: A Spicy and Unique Sensation
For those who enjoy daring foods, bagar hiu is a must-try when visiting Bengkulu. This dish is made from shark meat cooked in rich, spicy seasonings similar to rendang.
However, it’s important to note that shark meat is becoming increasingly rare due to the shark’s protected status. Nonetheless, the distinctive flavor remains recognized as part of Bengkulu Specialties, a key element of the region’s legendary culinary heritage.
2. Gulai Kemba’ang: A Mix of Beef Ribs and Fern Leaves
One of the most appetizing dishes in Bengkulu is gulai kemba’ang, which features beef ribs and fern leaves.
Served in a rich coconut milk broth infused with spices, this dish pairs perfectly with warm white rice. The savory, deep flavor of the spices makes gulai kemba’ang a must-try for lovers of traditional food.
3. Bubur Sekoi: A Nutritious Sweet Treat
Bubur sekoi is a sweet dish made from millet, a grain similar to rice that is rich in fiber and nutrients. It is cooked with palm sugar and coconut milk, resulting in a sweet and rich flavor, perfect for an afternoon snack. Its high nutritional content also makes it a healthy choice for people of all ages.
4. Lema: A Fusion of Bamboo Shoots and Fish
Lema resembles tempoyak and is one of Bengkulu’s unique dishes. Made from bamboo shoots cooked with tilapia or sepat fish, lema has a spicy and savory taste that pairs well with warm rice. This dish offers a distinctive flavor and is a favorite among those who enjoy fermented foods.
5. Mie Terbang: A Unique and Intriguing Dish
The name may sound strange, but mie terbang (flying noodles) is a dish worth trying. It is served using a unique presentation technique, where skewers hold the noodles so they appear to float above the plate.
With Bengkulu’s signature savory seasoning, mie terbang is not only intriguing in appearance but also delicious in taste.
6. Pendap: The Deliciousness of Fish Wrapped in Traditional Spices
Pendap is a popular dish in Bengkulu that uses fish as the main ingredient. The fish is seasoned with a blend of garlic, galangal, chili, and young grated coconut before being wrapped in taro leaves.
This preparation results in a strong and appetizing flavor. Served with warm white rice, every bite of pendap is a delight.
7. Tempoyak: Fermented Durian Specialty
Tempoyak is a fermented dish made from durian, cooked with patin fish and local spices. For durian lovers, tempoyak offers a rich and unique taste and aroma. While this dish is also known in other parts of Sumatra, such as Lampung, Bengkulu’s version has its own distinct local flavor.
8. Rebung Asam Undak Liling: A Combination of Young Bamboo and Snails
Rebung asam undak liling is a traditional dish from Bengkulu that combines young bamboo shoots and black snails (liling).
The bamboo shoots are soaked for several days to develop a tangy taste and then cooked with the snails and spices. This combination creates a unique and delightful flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere.
9. Lemang Tapai: A Savory Snack with a Sweet Touch
Lemang tapai is a popular traditional snack in Bengkulu. It is made from glutinous rice and coconut milk cooked inside young bamboo and served with black glutinous rice tapai or durian.
The chewy texture and savory flavor of the lemang blend perfectly with the sweet tapai, making it a sought-after treat during celebrations or special events.
10. Gulai Pisang: A Creative Take on Traditional Stew
While stews are usually made with meat, Bengkulu offers a twist with gulai pisang (banana stew). Bananas are cooked in a spiced coconut milk broth, creating a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
This dish showcases the creativity of Bengkulu’s people in utilizing local ingredients and provides an interesting alternative for those seeking something new.
Bengkulu’s traditional dishes are filled with unique flavors and irresistible tastes. From the spicy and savory pendap to the sweet bubur sekoi, each dish offers an unforgettable experience.
If you get the chance to visit Bengkulu, make sure to try these Bengkulu Specialties and savor the rich culture embedded in every bite.
