Explore the deliciousness of Palembang’s signature dishes, from the legendary pempek to fermented durian tempoyak, which reflect the richness of the archipelago’s culinary culture.
Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra, is famous as a historical city with icons such as the Ampera Bridge and the Musi River.
However, the appeal of this city lies not only in its natural and cultural beauty, but also in its rich culinary delights that are mouth-watering.
Palembang’s specialties not only reflect local flavors, but also reflect a blend of cultures and traditions that have been passed down for centuries.
Here are 10 Typical Palembang Foods that you should try to get to know more about the rich flavors of this city.
1. Pempek
Pempek is a culinary icon of Palembang that has become a national favorite. Made from a mixture of mackerel and tapioca flour, pempek comes in various types such as pempek kapal selam, lenjer, adaan, to innovative versions such as pempek bakar.
This dish is not complete without kuah cuko, a black sauce made from palm sugar, chili, and garlic, creating the perfect sour, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Served with additional cucumber and yellow noodles, pempek is a snack that is suitable to be enjoyed at any time.
2. Tekwan
Tekwan is a typical Palembang soup featuring small fish-based balls, similar to meatballs, but with a chewier texture.
Tekwan broth is made from savory shrimp broth, complemented by rice vermicelli, wood ear mushrooms, jicama, and sprinkled with fried onions. Tekwan is a light dish that is perfect to eat to warm the body in the afternoon.
3. Patin Fish Soup
As a city rich in fishery products, Palembang presents pindang patin, a dish made from patin fish cooked in a clear broth with a spicy and sour taste.
The broth is rich in spices such as turmeric, lemongrass, and bay leaves, giving it a fragrant aroma and fresh taste. This dish is usually served with warm rice and mango chili sauce.
4. Laksan
Laksan is a food made from pempek dough which is processed into an oval shape and served with thick coconut milk sauce.
The sauce has a savory taste with a touch of spices such as candlenuts, turmeric, and shallots. Laksan is often a typical dish at special events of the Palembang community.
5. Diving
Celimpungan is similar to laksan, but its shape is smaller and rounder. The dough is also made from pempek, while the coconut milk sauce is lighter and yellow in color. This sauce is made from coconut milk seasoned with turmeric, shallots, and coriander, giving it a smooth yet rich taste.
6. Tempoyak
Tempoyak is fermented durian which produces a distinctive sour taste. Tempoyak is often served with patin fish or snakehead fish, with the addition of chilies and spices.
The combination of sour, spicy and savory flavors makes tempoyak one of the unique and authentic dishes from Palembang.
7. Bone Stew
If pindang patin uses fish as the main ingredient, pindang tulang uses beef bones cooked with spices such as lemongrass, cinnamon, and cloves.
The broth is rich in flavor, while the meat attached to the bones becomes very tender after being cooked for a long time. This dish is perfect enjoyed with white rice and shrimp paste chili sauce.
8. Burgo
Burgo is a traditional dish made from rice flour and sago flour dough that is processed into thin sheets, rolled, then cut into pieces.
This dish is served with a savory and slightly spicy coconut milk sauce, and is topped with shredded chicken and boiled eggs. Burgo is often a favorite breakfast choice for the people of Palembang.
9. Celor Noodles
Mie celor is thick yellow noodles served with thick coconut milk sauce seasoned with shrimp stock.
This dish is served with boiled shrimp, bean sprouts, eggs, and sprinkled with fried onions and celery leaves. The savory and slightly sweet broth makes mie celor a filling breakfast or lunch option.
10. Crackers
Kemplang is a typical Palembang cracker made from a mixture of mackerel and tapioca flour. The process of making it is unique, because this cracker is baked instead of fried, resulting in a crunchy but not oily texture. Kemplang is usually enjoyed with cuko sauce to add flavor.
Palembang’s culinary specialties reflect the diversity of its people’s culture and tradiIn addition to being delicious, these foods are also an important part of Palembang’s identity as Bumi Sriwijaya.
When you visit Palembang, don’t miss the chance to taste these ten signature dishes. Every bite will take you on a taste journey rich in history and culture. For those eager to explore South Sumatra Specialties, Palembang cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors that reflect the region’s heritage. It is not just about food but also an unforgettable experience.
