The traditional cuisine of Singkawang offers extraordinary flavors that will delight your taste buds, providing an authentic culinary experience that you must try.

Singkawang, a small city in West Kalimantan known as the “City of a Thousand Temples,” has become increasingly popular as a tourist destination.

Not only because of its captivating scenery and culture, but also due to its unique culinary delights.

The blend of Chinese and Indonesian cultures has created dishes with authentic flavors that are hard to find elsewhere. Here are 10 Typical Singkawang Foods that you must try when visiting this city.

1. Asam Pedas Ikan Baung

Asam Pedas Ikan Baung is a must-try dish in Singkawang. The fish, similar to catfish, has thick, tender flesh and no bones.

It is cooked with a mix of spices such as galangal, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, shallots, and turmeric. The sharp sour-spicy taste and aromatic spices make this dish a favorite among seafood lovers.

2. Gulai Belacan

Gulai Belacan is a savory dish made from fresh shrimp cooked in thick coconut milk with spices like candlenut, pepper, and tamarind. The dish offers an unparalleled richness. You can choose freshwater shrimp or sea shrimp to add variety to the flavor.

3. Roti Canai

Roti Canai is a popular snack in Singkawang. This bread has a crispy exterior and a soft interior, making it the perfect accompaniment to curry or enjoyed on its own. With its savory flavor, this dish is loved by people of all ages and can be enjoyed at any time.

4. Miso

Miso, a noodle dish unique to Singkawang, is made from a mix of yellow and white noodles served in a savory broth.

This dish is accompanied by shredded chicken, crispy tofu, chicken skin crackers, and boiled mustard greens. The refreshing broth combined with the toppings creates a refreshing taste experience.

5. Sop and Sate Rusa

Trying sop (soup) and sate (satay) rusa (deer) in Singkawang offers a unique culinary experience. Deer meat is known for being tender and naturally sweet. The satay is served with a spiced sauce, while the soup is served in a warm clear broth. Both are perfect with white rice, especially on a cold day.

6. Mie Sagu

Mie Sagu is an example of how the people of Singkawang use local ingredients in their cuisine. These noodles have a chewy texture and translucent color. They are cooked with simple spices and topped with fried anchovies, giving this dish a distinctive and delicious flavor.

7. Mie Lendir

Mie Lendir is named for its thick sauce made from ground peanuts. Its savory taste and the aroma of local spices make it a popular dish among locals.

The noodles are served with a boiled egg, bean sprouts, and slices of bird’s eye chili, adding an extra level of enjoyment with every bite.

8. Lakse Kuah

Lakse Kuah offers a different taste experience. Its thick coconut milk broth mixed with spices like coriander and sweet fennel gives it a unique savory flavor. Topped with seafood like tuna or anchovies, this dish becomes even more delicious and enticing.

9. Mie Tarempa

Mie Tarempa is a fried noodle dish from Singkawang, rich in spices. Cooked with shrimp, egg, bean sprouts, and soy sauce, this noodle dish offers a sweet and spicy flavor. There is also a soup version of Mie Tarempa, giving foodies another option to try.

10. Kue Keranjang

Kue Keranjang is a symbol of the Chinese New Year celebrations in Singkawang. Made from glutinous rice and brown sugar, this cake has a soft texture and a sweet, rich taste.

It is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect snack for relaxation. Additionally, Kue Keranjang is frequently given as a souvenir for family members.

Each traditional dish from Singkawang not only offers a delightful taste but also reflects the rich cultural heritage behind it.

With traditional cooking techniques and local spices passed down through generations, each dish tells a story of the community’s history and uniqueness.

When visiting Singkawang, make sure to savor the authenticity and deliciousness of its local dishes, and don’t miss the chance to explore North Kalimantan Specialties to turn your culinary journey into an unforgettable experience.