Indonesia Food and Drink
Food
The islands of Indonesia offer a variety of cuisines to suit a wide variety of tastes. Food and cooking styles differ between islands and regions but have been greatly influenced by Indian, Middle Eastern, Chinese and European involvement throughout the centuries.
Fresh fruit is a staple of the diet found in Indonesia and East Java is known as the “Fruit Bowl”. Coconuts, apples, avocados, mandarins, lemons, bananas, mangos and pineapples are among the favourites and are eaten raw or in desserts, or made into drinks or snacks. Rice is also an important ingredient in many dishes and has been used since around 2,000BC. Indonesia is known worldwide as the “Spice Islands” and the use of many spices has played a big role in shaping the nation’s culinary identity.
Although each island has its own specialties, there are many dishes that are popular across the country. They include:
Ikan pangang: a whole broiled fish is marinated and basted with spices, coconut, chilli, lime and ginger and is usually served with a sauce accompaniment.
Gago-gago: a mixed vegetable and tofu salad that is covered in a peanut sauce dressing.
Satey / Sate: this is a marinated and skewered meat or fish dish that is either grilled or barbecued over a wood or charcoal fire. It is then served with spicy seasonings.
Nasi goreng: this is fried rice that is sometimes served just as an accompaniment or can also be served as a one-pot dish with spice, eggs, vegetables, meat and seafood.
Drink
Tea or Teh is a favourite drink amongst Indonesians. Teh manis is a sweet tea that is quite common in most homes. Popular variations include Jasmine and green tea. Coffee or Kopi is also popular with kopi tubruk being a hot, sugary coffee. Wine and other alcoholic beverages are not particularly in demand in Indonesia as it is a predominately Muslim country, however, they are available.
Things to know:
If a service charge has not been applied to a bill then 10% is a standard tip.
Drinking age:
18
Indonesia Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Indonesia.
Learn about the history and culture of Indonesia, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Indonesia's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Indonesia for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Indonesia tours today!
Extend Your Trip
After your Indonesia vacation, consider taking the time to visit other destinations. Goway offers exciting China vacation packages, India tours and Thailand vacation packages plus a comprehensive selection of vacation packages in many other Asian countries.
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