Savor the delicious traditional dishes of Southeast Sulawesi, full of authentic flavors and rich cultural heritage.

Southeast Sulawesi is not only a captivating destination for nature tourism but also a paradise for traditional food lovers. Each dish from this region carries authentic flavors, crafted with local spices that delight the palate.

The aromatic and bold spices provide a tasting experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. If you’re visiting Southeast Sulawesi, take the time to enjoy the richness of its local cuisine. Here are 10 traditional dishes you must try:

1. Karasi

Karasi is a sweet snack originating from Wakatobi and Buton, known for its crispy texture and distinct sweetness.

Traditionally, karasi was made from young corn mixed with liquid palm sugar. Today, its modern version uses rice flour and granulated sugar.

The mixture is shaped using coconut shells to form a hair-like weave, then fried until golden brown. Southeast Sulawesi Specialties like Karasi are perfect when enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea in the afternoon.

2. Ikan Dole

Ikan Dole is a savory dish from Buton, made from mackerel fish that is ground and mixed with grated coconut and eggs, then shaped and fried. Alternative fish like flying fish, tuna, or skipjack can also be used. Ikan Dole is usually enjoyed warm as a snack or side dish.

3. Luluta

Luluta is a traditional dish from Wakatobi made from a mixture of rice and coconut milk. These ingredients are wrapped in banana leaves, placed inside bamboo tubes, and then roasted over a fire.

This cooking process gives the dish a distinct aroma and a rich savory taste. Luluta is best served with grilled fish for a richer flavor experience.

4. Kasuami

Kasuami is a traditional food popular in Buton, Wakatobi, and Muna, often used as a substitute for rice. Made from grated cassava that is squeezed dry and steamed after being dried in the sun, Kasuami has a conical shape resembling a small “tumpeng” and a yellowish-white color.

Its soft texture and savory, salty, and sweet combination make it perfect when paired with fish parende, sambal colo-colo, or cassava leaf vegetable.

5. Sate Gogos Pokea

Sate Gogos Pokea is a dish from Kali Pohara, Konawe, made from river shellfish (pokea) skewered and grilled.

It is usually served with gogos, a type of lemper without filling that is also grilled, accompanied by either spicy or sweet seasoning. The combination of the tender shellfish and the savory gogos makes it a popular snack.

6. Sinonggi

Sinonggi is an alternative to rice, made from sago starch. It is boiled with water to create a thick and sticky texture.

Sinonggi is typically served with vegetable broth made from moringa, spinach, long beans, or palumara fish broth. Though it may taste bland on its own, the seasoned broth turns Sinonggi into a delicious dish full of flavor.

7. Parende

Parende is a dish made from fish like snapper, mackerel, or grouper cooked in a clear broth. Seasoned with shallots, garlic, starfruit, tomatoes, and salt, it delivers a strong refreshing taste. Parende is perfect for those who enjoy fish dishes with a sour and fresh flavor.

8. Lapa-Lapa

Lapa-lapa is a traditional dish from Buton, usually served during the month of Ramadan. Made from rice wrapped in banana leaves, lapa-lapa has a savory taste. It is often enjoyed with salted fish such as Kaholeonarore, creating a delightful combination of savory and salty flavors.

9. Kapusu

Kapusu, also known as corn porridge, is a traditional dish made by mixing corn and red beans. With a soft texture and a sweet-savory flavor, it makes for an ideal breakfast or afternoon snack that is both satisfying and flavorful.

10. Manu Kinowu

Manu Kinowu is a dish made with village chicken cooked with a variety of spices like ginger, bay leaves, lemongrass, and tomatoes.

These spices are ground and sautéed until fragrant before the chicken pieces are added. The rich flavors and tender texture make Manu Kinowu the perfect choice for a special lunch or dinner.

The cuisine of Southeast Sulawesi is not just about taste, but also the stories and traditions that it carries.

Each dish reflects the cultural heritage that should be appreciated, making your visit to Southeast Sulawesi even more memorable. Don’t forget to explore Central Sulawesi Specialties as well, to experience the full uniqueness of the region’s culinary delights!