Explore Medan’s culinary offerings, blending local traditions with unmatched flavors, creating authentic tastes that will captivate your heart.
Medan, one of the largest cities in Indonesia, is home to a rich cultural heritage. Not only is it known for its traditions and customs, but Medan is also a food paradise that offers unique and distinctive flavors.
The blend of various cultures, such as Malay, Batak, Chinese, and Indian, is clearly reflected in each of its traditional dishes. Medan’s cuisine is not only favored by locals but also attracts food lovers from all over the country.
If you’re planning to visit Medan, don’t miss the opportunity to taste these flavorful dishes. Here are 10 must-try traditional dishes from Medan:
1. Bika Ambon
Bika Ambon is a traditional Medan delicacy that you must try when visiting the city. Despite its name referencing “Ambon,” this cake is actually native to Medan. A true Medan Specialty, its soft, fibrous texture, combined with a rich sweetness, makes it a popular snack.
The distinctive fragrance of pandan and lemongrass adds a unique touch. Not only delicious, but this cake is also a popular souvenir due to its long shelf life.
2. Lontong Medan
A popular breakfast dish in Medan, Lontong Medan consists of rice cakes served with a vegetable curry broth rich in spices, complemented by various side dishes such as balado eggs, tauco, sambal anchovies, and fried noodles.
The combination of savory, spicy, and sweet flavors from each component makes Lontong Medan a much-loved dish.
3. Soto Medan
Soto Medan stands out from other regional sotos due to its unique characteristics. The broth is thickened with coconut milk, blending with traditional spices to create a rich and savory flavor.
The soto comes with a variety of fillings, such as shrimp, chicken, or beef. It is served with fried potatoes, boiled eggs, and fried shallots, making it the perfect choice for a satisfying lunch.
4. Mi Gomak
Known as “Batak spaghetti,” Mi Gomak is a Medan noodle dish cooked with peanut sauce or coconut milk. The thick, chewy noodles are combined with rich spices, creating an unforgettable authentic taste. Mi Gomak is often served with vegetables, eggs, or chicken as additions.
5. Nasi Kentut
With a unique name, Nasi Kentut piques curiosity. It gets its name from being cooked with sembukan leaves, also known as “kentut” leaves, which give the dish a distinctive fragrant aroma.
Nasi Kentut is typically served with various side dishes like fried chicken, pepes fish, and sambal terasi. Besides its great taste, the sembukan leaves are also believed to aid digestion.
6. Nasi Lemak Medan
Medan’s take on the well-known Malaysian Nasi Lemak involves rice cooked in coconut milk for a rich flavor, accompanied by anchovies, boiled eggs, sambal, and optional sides like fried chicken or rendang. Its simple yet flavorful taste makes Nasi Lemak Medan a perfect choice for breakfast or lunch.
7. Kari Bihun
For spice lovers, Kari Bihun is a dish that you must try. The thick, flavorful curry broth pairs perfectly with soft bihun noodles, free-range chicken, or beef. A serving of Kari Bihun is usually accompanied by a boiled egg and crackers, offering a warm and satisfying meal.
8. Bihun Bebek Medan
This dish is a haven for duck lovers. The savory duck broth, rich in spices, is the main element of Bihun Bebek Medan. Tender duck meat is served with bihun noodles, fried shallots, and pickled chili.
The combination of savory, spicy, and sour flavors makes it truly special. Be sure to try this dish at legendary places like Bihun Bebek Amin when in Medan.
9. Lemang
Lemang is a traditional delicacy consisting of glutinous rice prepared in bamboo with coconut milk and pandan leaves, offering a deep and delightful taste. The cooking process imparts a savory taste and a fragrant aroma.
Lemang is often served with palm sugar or grated coconut as a sweet snack. Its soft and chewy texture makes it perfect for any time of day.
10. Dodol Medan
Dodol Medan, with its chewy texture and sweet, rich flavor, is a favorite souvenir from the city. Made from palm sugar, coconut milk, and glutinous rice, this dodol comes in various flavors like durian, which adds to its appeal. Dodol Medan is not only delicious but also symbolizes the wealth of traditional culinary heritage that remains preserved.
Medan’s cuisine is a reflection of its colorful cultural heritage. Each dish reflects the blend of Malay, Chinese, Batak, and Indian influences, creating unique and authentic flavors. The abundant use of spices and traditional cooking methods make Medan’s culinary offerings irresistible to food lovers.
For those planning a trip to Medan, be sure to include these local dishes in your must-try list. Not only will they satisfy your taste buds, but tasting Medan’s cuisine, including Padang Specialties, is also one of the best ways to get closer to the city’s culture and traditions. So, what are you waiting for? Which of these dishes would you like to taste first?
