West Kalimantan’s traditional dishes bring a unique culinary experience with authentic flavors deeply rooted in the region’s local culture.
West Kalimantan is not only known for its stunning natural landscapes and distinctive cultural traditions but also for its mouthwatering traditional cuisine.
Each dish reflects the area’s cultural diversity and creative use of local ingredients. If you’re visiting West Kalimantan, don’t miss the chance to try these 10 signature dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds.
1. Bubur Pedas Pontianak: A Savory Porridge Rich in Herbs and Vegetables
Despite its name, Bubur Pedas (spicy porridge) is not particularly spicy. This Pontianak specialty is made from rice cooked with a variety of herbs like turmeric, ginger, and kesum leaves, a unique plant found in West Kalimantan.
Served with water spinach, ferns, grated coconut, fried shallots, anchovies, and peanuts, it offers a savory taste and aromatic blend. A squeeze of lime and a drizzle of sweet soy sauce add an extra layer of flavor.
2. Bubur Gunting: A Sweet Delight from Singkawang
Bubur Gunting is a traditional dessert from Singkawang influenced by Chinese culinary heritage. It features a thick mung bean and tapioca soup topped with sliced cakwe (fried dough sticks), cut with scissors as its name suggests.
The sweetness of the soup combined with the savory cakwe creates a delightful flavor contrast, making it a classic example of Typical West Kalimantan Food. This dish is a must-try at the renowned Warung Bubur Gunting Asun in West Singkawang.
3. Tempoyak: A Unique Durian Fermentation
Tempoyak, a specialty of Bengkayang, is made from fermented durian, resulting in a tangy and savory taste. It is often served as a side dish with rice or used as a base for sambal and fish curry.
The fermentation process not only enhances its flavor but also boosts its nutritional content, making it a healthy and distinctive culinary experience.
4. Kerupuk Basah: Authentic Fish Flavors
Kerupuk Basah, a signature dish from Kapuas Hulu, is made from minced toman or belida fish mixed with a small amount of flour and steamed until cooked.
It’s served with peanut sauce or chili sauce for a combination of spicy and savory flavors. Unlike traditional crackers, this dish has a chewy texture, similar to pempek.
5. Pengkang: Sticky Rice with Grilled Aroma
Pengkang is a Pontianak specialty made of glutinous rice stuffed with dried shrimp (ebi), wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled over charcoal.
The smoky aroma of the banana leaves combined with the savory flavors of the rice and shrimp make it a favorite snack for all ages, often enjoyed with tea in the afternoon.
6. Bingke: A Soft and Sweet Traditional Cake
Bingke is a soft, sweet cake made from a mixture of eggs and flour, popular in Pontianak. Available in flavors like chocolate, cheese, and durian, this cake is a perfect souvenir. Its texture resembles kue lumpur, but Bingke offers a richer taste and distinct aroma.
7. Kue Kantong Semar: A Rare Traditional Treat
Kue Kantong Semar is a traditional dessert from the West Kalimantan interior, made using the natural pouch of the kantong semar plant as a wrapper.
The filling usually consists of glutinous rice mixed with red beans, steamed until cooked. As the kantong semar plant is protected, this dish is prepared under special permissions to preserve its cultural and ecological significance.
8. Mi Sagu: A Chewy Noodle Alternative
Mi Sagu is a unique dish made from sago, offering a chewier texture compared to regular noodles. These brownish noodles are typically stir-fried with garlic, bean sprouts, chives, and meat, and served with a thick broth for added flavor. Mi Sagu is a comforting dish suitable for any meal of the day.
9. Pisang Goreng Srikaya: An Iconic Pontianak Snack
Pisang Goreng Srikaya combines crispy fried bananas with a topping of sweet kaya (coconut jam) spread.
The kaya, made from eggs and pandan-infused coconut, adds a creamy and fragrant sweetness to the crunchy bananas. Pair it with Pontianak’s famous brewed coffee for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
10. Bubur Ikan Pontianak: Savory Porridge with Fresh Fish
Bubur Ikan Pontianak is a unique porridge combining soft rice with fish broth, fresh vegetables, and kampung eggs. The fish, either from the sea or river, adds a fresh and savory aroma to the dish. This nutritious meal is a local favorite for breakfast, offering a hearty start to the day.
West Kalimantan is a culinary paradise that showcases not only delicious flavors but also rich cultural and traditional significance.
From savory dishes like Bubur Pedas to sweet treats like Pisang Goreng Srikaya, every dish, including Typical Pontianak Food, offers an unforgettable culinary adventure.
When visiting West Kalimantan, make sure to explore its diverse flavors and immerse yourself in the region’s rich culinary heritage. Enjoy your foodie journey in the heart of Borneo!
