KONTAN.CO.ID JAKARTA. As the bustling metropolis of DKI Jakarta proudly hosts the 43rd ASEAN Summit from September 5th to 7th, 2023, delegates and visitors will not only engage in vital discussions but also have the opportunity to savor Jakarta's diverse street food culture. The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy is excited to recommend some quintessential Jakarta street food snacks for delegates to enjoy during their stay.

Jakarta's street food, often referred to as "jajanan pasar" or hawker snacks, offers a delightful array of flavors, from appetizers to desserts. These treats can be found in traditional markets and have now made their way into modern shopping centers and malls, offering a taste of Jakarta's rich culinary heritage.

Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, expressed his enthusiasm for sharing Jakarta's culinary treasures with ASEAN Summit delegates. He remarked, "Betawi cuisine boasts authentic and unique flavors that have been cherished for generations. I hope that amidst their busy agendas, the delegates will take the opportunity to savor Betawi culinary specialties, making their working visit to Jakarta truly memorable."

Here are some must-try street food snacks for delegates at the 2023 ASEAN Summit:

1. Kerak Telor

This legendary Betawi delicacy is known for its savory flavor, with a soft interior and a crispy exterior. It pairs wonderfully with hot coffee or tea in the afternoon. The dish is prepared by mixing duck eggs with white sticky rice, fried shallots, and roasted dried shrimp, all seasoned with a blend of spices, including red chilies, galangal, ginger, serundeng (coconut flakes), pepper, salt, and sugar. The unique cooking method involves placing the kerak telor dough on a frying pan over charcoal.

2. Selendang Mayang

Selendang mayang is a popular Betawi dessert made from rice flour mixed with food coloring (typically green, red, and white), syrup, coconut milk, and ice. It offers a delightful combination of sweet, savory, cold, and refreshing flavors, making it the perfect way to conclude a meal.

3. Bir Pletok

Despite its name, Bir pletok is a non-alcoholic beverage that represents traditional Betawi culture. It's a warm and invigorating drink made from a blend of spices, including "secang" wood, cinnamon, ginger, lemongrass, red ginger, turmeric, black pepper, pandan leaves, nutmeg, lime leaves, kembang lawang, kapulaga, and cloves. Sugar and salt are added to enhance its flavor.

4. Kue Cincin (Ring-shaped Pastries)

These brown ring-shaped pastries are made from brown sugar, rice flour, and roasted coconut. They are commonly presented at special events, such as weddings and circumcision ceremonies, and are appreciated for their unique taste and cultural significance.

5. Kembang Goyang

Kembang goyang, named for its flower-like shape, is another beloved Betawi snack. It's made from rice flour, salt, sugar, and sesame seeds, and the dough is fried until it becomes crispy. The result is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors.

6. Talam Pandan

Talam pandan is a traditional Betawi cake renowned for its exquisite taste and aesthetic appeal. Its lotus flower-inspired design features two distinct layers: a chewy bottom layer made from sticky rice dough and a green top layer composed of rice flour, sugar, coconut milk, and pandan leaves. Often adorned with pandan leaves, coconut flakes, or sesame seeds, these cakes are a visual and culinary delight.

7. Putu Mayang

Putu mayang is a traditional Betawi snack made from rice flour and coconut milk, resembling round noodles. It is served with thick liquid brown sugar that imparts a delightful sweetness. Indonesia's rich culinary heritage comes to life through these street food delicacies, providing a delicious way for ASEAN Summit delegates to experience the culture of Jakarta during their visit. Whether savoring the savory Kerak Telor or indulging in the sweet Selendang Mayang, these street food snacks promise to leave a lasting impression on visitors' taste buds.

Editor: Syamsul Azhar