Jakarta, a city that never sleeps, also holds a treasure trove of legendary culinary delights. But unfortunately, some of them are becoming rare and hard to find. If you donโt want to miss out, today you must try these three rare Jakarta foods: Ketoprak Ciragil, Lontong Cap Gomeh, and Sate Kere. Check out their flavor profiles, textures, and tips to enjoy them even more!
1. Ketoprak Ciragil
Ketoprak Ciragil is one of the most legendary versions of ketoprak in Jakarta. Unlike regular ketoprak, this Ciragil version has a more complex flavor profile thanks to its thick and slightly spicy peanut sauce.
Flavor and Texture
It tastes savory-sweet with a spicy kick from the peanut chili paste that makes it addictive. The texture is sticky from the soft lontong (rice cake), chewy rice vermicelli, crunchy bean sprouts, and crispy fried tofu. Plus crackers as a topping that adds extra excitement.
Price
Super affordable! For just Rp15,000โRp20,000, you can enjoy a full portion.
Must Try
Donโt forget to ask for extra chili paste to make it even better. Itโs best to order without sugar or ask for less sweet soy sauce so the peanut flavor stands out more.
Halal Check
Ketoprak Ciragil is generally halal as it uses basic ingredients like tofu, rice cake, and meatless seasonings. However, make sure the vendor uses oil free from pork fat.
2. Lontong Cap Gomeh
Lontong Cap Gomeh is a Peranakan dish traditionally served during the Cap Go Meh celebration. In Jakarta, this food is becoming rare as itโs only available in certain places.
Flavor and Texture
The broth, rich in coconut milk and spices, provides a savory taste with a hint of sweetness and spice. The rice cake is soft, absorbing the broth perfectly. Itโs usually accompanied by boiled eggs, shredded chicken, and small shrimp that add layers of flavor.
Price
Slightly pricier due to the ingredients and cooking process, ranging from Rp25,000โRp35,000 per portion.
Must Try
Order with extra green birdโs eye chili paste for extra freshness. Donโt forget to dip shrimp crackers on the side.
Halal Check
Lontong Cap Gomeh can be halal if it uses chicken and shrimp slaughtered according to Islamic law. Also ensure the coconut milk and spices donโt contain non-halal ingredients. Do ask the vendor.
3. Sate Kere
Sate Kere, or โpoor manโs satay,โ is a satay made from cheap beef meat and offal. Once associated with the lower class, itโs now sought after by foodies for its uniqueness.
Flavor and Texture
The meat is tender with a slight chewiness typical of offal, grilled until browned with a sweet and spicy soy sauce marinade. The peanut sauce is thick and savory, topped with crispy fried shallots. It tastes salty, sweet, and slightly charred, giving a smoky aroma.
Price
The cheapest of the three, only Rp10,000โRp15,000 for ten skewers.
Must Try
Eat it with rice cake or warm rice, plus fresh cucumber slices and birdโs eye chilies. Enjoy the authentic bitter and savory sensation.
Halal Check
Sate Kere typically uses beef and offal. Make sure the meat source is halal and the slaughtering process complies. Many sate kere vendors are Muslim, so itโs generally safe. But still ask, okay?
So there you have itโthree rare Jakarta foods you must try today. Every bite carries a story and flavors you wonโt find anywhere else. Hurry and visit the vendors before they become even harder to find!
