Sundanese cuisine

Sundanese cuisine is a traditional food culture originating from the Sundanese people of West Java, Indonesia. It is one of the most popular cuisines in the country, known for its freshness, simplicity, and reliance on locally sourced ingredients.

Overview

Sundanese cuisine emphasizes raw or lightly cooked vegetables, making it distinct from other Indonesian culinary traditions. The staple food is rice, often served with a variety of side dishes. Sundanese meals typically include a protein source such as fish or chicken, a variety of vegetables, and a spicy sambal sauce.

Key Ingredients

Sundanese cuisine uses a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, including kale, spinach, cabbage, basil, and lemongrass. Protein sources include freshwater fish, chicken, and tofu. The cuisine is also known for its use of tempeh, a fermented soy product that is a staple in many Indonesian diets.

Popular Dishes

Some popular Sundanese dishes include Nasi Timbel (rice wrapped in banana leaf), Soto Bandung (a clear soup with beef and radish), and Karedok (a raw vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Another well-known dish is Lotek, a warm salad made from boiled vegetables, tofu, and tempeh, served with a spicy peanut sauce.

Eating Habits

Sundanese people traditionally eat with their hands, a practice known as nasi liwet. Meals are often communal, with food served in shared dishes in the middle of the table.

Influence and Spread

Sundanese cuisine has influenced and been influenced by other culinary traditions in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. It has also gained popularity internationally, with Sundanese restaurants found in many countries around the world.