Pempek

Pempek or empek-empek is a traditional Indonesian dish originating from Palembang, a city in the southern part of Sumatra. It is made from fish and tapioca, and is often served with a dark, rich sauce called Cuko.

History

The dish is believed to have been introduced in Palembang by Chinese immigrants, who started to settle in the region around the 16th century. The name "Pempek" is thought to be derived from the term "apek", a colloquial term for an old Chinese man.

Preparation

The main ingredients of Pempek are fish and tapioca. The fish, usually mackerel, is ground to a paste, mixed with tapioca, and then shaped and boiled. There are several varieties of Pempek, including Pempek Kapal Selam (Submarine Pempek), which includes an egg in the middle, and Pempek Lenjer, a long, cylindrical Pempek.

The dish is served with Cuko, a sweet and spicy sauce made from brown sugar, chili, tamarind, and garlic. It is also often accompanied by yellow noodles and diced cucumber to balance the spiciness of the Cuko.

Cultural Significance

Pempek is considered a culinary icon of Palembang and is a popular dish throughout Indonesia. It is often served at special occasions and is also a popular street food. In Palembang, there are many restaurants and stalls specializing in Pempek, and the dish is often given as a gift or souvenir.

See Also

• Indonesian cuisine
• List of Indonesian dishes
• List of fish dishes