Jakarta is truly a heaven for fusion cuisine. One of the rising star blends is Japanese-Betawi fusion. The combination of distinctive Japanese umami flavors with strong Betawi spices creates a new experience that makes your taste buds dance. Here are 3 must-try dishes today!
1. Sushi Betawi: Nori Meets Kerak Telor
Taste and Texture
Sushi Betawi replaces regular rice with kerak telor that's crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Toppings can be fried dried ebi (shrimp) or grilled ikan kembung (Indian mackerel) drizzled with sweet soy sambal. The savory taste of kerak telor blends with the sweet and sour sambal kecap, plus the crunch of nori. A unique sensation!
Price
Range IDR 25,000 - 35,000 per portion (6-8 pieces). Perfect for budget travelers.
Must Try
The Sushi Betawi Sambal Kecap variant at Warung Suki Betawi (Kemang) is a favorite. Don't forget to add local furikake made from serundeng!
Halal Check
Halal, as the main ingredients are halal and there's no mirin or sake.
2. Ramen Betawi: Miso Meets Soto Betawi
Taste and Texture
The ramen broth is made from thick beef stock with miso paste and Betawi soto spices (turmeric, galangal, lemongrass). Added with empal beef (fried spiced beef) that's sautรฉed, bean sprouts, and emping melinjo crackers. The chewy ramen noodles absorb the savory, slightly spicy broth. It warms you up!
Price
Around IDR 40,000 - 55,000 per bowl. Large portion, ideal for lunch.
Must Try
Ramen Soto Betawi at Ramen Bete (Menteng) has selectable spice levels. Add ajitama (soy-marinated egg) for extra flavor.
Halal Check
Halal, does not use pork or alcohol.
3. Tempura Betawi: Crispy with Sambal Kecap
Taste and Texture
Classic Japanese tempura is transformed with Betawi spices. The batter is mixed with candlenuts and coriander, fried until super crispy. Fillings can be shrimp, mushrooms, or the distinctive oncom (fermented soybean cake). Served with spicy sambal kecap and cucumber pickles.
Price
Starting from IDR 20,000 - 30,000 for 5-6 pieces. Ideal as a snack.
Must Try
Tempura Oncom at Tempura Betawi House (Pasar Santa) โ the oncom has a creamy inside, crispy outside texture.
Halal Check
Halal, oncom is halal. Ensure the oil is free from pork fat.
Conclusion
The Japanese-Betawi fusion proves that cuisine can keep innovating without losing its identity. The three dishes above are easy to find in Jakarta at affordable prices. Don't hesitate to try them and experience the unique blend yourself!
