Experience the authentic and tantalizing flavors of Lombok’s traditional cuisine, offering an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Lombok has become a top tourist destination, not only for its stunning natural scenery but also for its delectable local cuisine.
Lombok’s culinary specialties are rich in spices and unique flavors, often influenced by the Sasak culture. From spicy dishes to crunchy snacks, here are 10 recommended must-try dishes in Lombok!
1. Ayam Taliwang
Originally from Taliwang Village in West Sumbawa, Ayam Taliwang has become a Lombok culinary icon. This dish uses young free-range chicken grilled with a mix of chili, garlic, tomatoes, shrimp paste, kencur (aromatic ginger), and lime juice.
The spicy taste and smoky aroma make Ayam Taliwang a mouthwatering delight, best enjoyed with warm rice. Be sure to pick up some Typical Lombok Souvenirs to bring home the island’s unique flavors and traditions.
2. Plecing Kangkung
No Ayam Taliwang meal is complete without Plecing Kangkung. Lombok’s water spinach is extra crunchy, served with bean sprouts, long beans, fried peanuts, and a splash of fresh, spicy tomato sambal.
The addition of lime juice makes it a refreshing side dish for various main courses.
3. Sate Rembiga
Sate Rembiga is a unique Lombok beef satay with a sweet and spicy marinade. The beef is seasoned with chili, garlic, palm sugar, and shrimp paste, giving it a distinctively savory and spicy flavor.
Served with rice cakes and beef broth, this satay is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
4. Nasi Puyung
Nasi Puyung, from Puyung Village, is a complete meal on one plate. It includes spicy shredded chicken, egg, crispy potatoes, fried soybeans, sambal, and grated coconut. With its fragrant spices, Nasi Puyung is perfect for a satisfying lunch.
5. Sate Bulayak
Sate Bulayak is a Lombok-style beef satay served with bulayak, a rice cake wrapped in palm leaves. The peanut sauce is made with ground peanuts cooked in coconut milk, creating a rich flavor similar to curry.
The unique texture of bulayak complements the satay perfectly, making this dish special.
6. Nasi Balap
Nasi Balap, often called Nasi Balap Puyung, is a popular breakfast dish consisting of rice with spicy shredded chicken, fried soybeans, sautéed green beans, and crispy potatoes.
This simple dish delivers a spicy and savory flavor, making it ideal for starting the day. You can find the legendary Nasi Balap at Inaq Esun Warung for around IDR 8,000 per serving.
7. Kue Keciput
Kue Keciput is a great option for Lombok souvenirs. Resembling sesame balls without filling, these small, crunchy treats are made from glutinous rice flour and coated with sesame seeds.
Perfect with coffee, Kue Keciput can be found at souvenir shops for around IDR 20,000 to IDR 30,000 per box.
8. Nasi Campur Lombok
Nasi Campur Lombok is a perfect choice for sampling various local dishes on one plate. It typically includes sate pusut (Lombok-style skewered meat), fried chicken, beberuk (spicy vegetable salad), tempeh, potato patties, and corn fritters.
Warung Murah on Jl. Yos Sudarso, Mataram, serves this dish starting from IDR 10,000 per portion.
9. Sate Tanjung
Sate Tanjung is a unique satay made with fish. Originating from North Lombok, it combines coconut milk, pepper, and garlic, creating a rich and savory taste.
Skewered on bamboo sticks, this satay can be found in Tanjung Village for around IDR 15,000 to IDR 25,000 for 12 sticks.
10. Sayur Ares
Sayur Ares is a traditional Sasak dish made from young banana stalks, usually of the kepok banana variety. This unique dish has a savory and spicy curry flavor, offering a different culinary experience.
While traditionally served at special occasions, Sayur Ares is now available at some restaurants for around IDR 5,000 per portion.
Lombok is a destination that not only captivates with its natural beauty but also with its rich culinary heritage. Each of the dishes above presents unique flavors with bold spices, reflecting the cultural richness of the Sasak people.
Among the Things to do in Bali, don’t miss the chance to try these 10 Lombok specialties when you visit this exotic island! Enjoy the unparalleled flavors!
