Join Mark as he embarks on a street food tour in Surabaya, Indonesia, tasting iconic dishes like Raan, Nasi Pel, and the world's best fried duck. Discover the unique flavors and preparation methods that make Indonesian cuisine a must-try for food lovers.
Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia, is a street food paradise that offers a delightful blend of flavors and culinary traditions. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most iconic dishes that define the local food scene, as experienced by Mark during his ultimate street food tour.
Mark begins his day with two traditional breakfast dishes: Raan and Nasi Pel. These comfort foods are staples in East Java, perfect for starting the day.
Raan is a beef soup that boasts a unique aroma reminiscent of coffee and chocolate. The preparation involves cooking beef in a broth made from the kak nut (also known as pangium), which is a poisonous fruit that must be fermented and processed carefully to remove toxins. This soup is known for its dark color and rich flavor, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the region.
Alongside Raan, Mark tries Nasi Pel, which consists of rice topped with various vegetables, coconut, and a peanut sauce known as pachella. The combination of flavors is refreshing and light, making it an ideal breakfast option. Locals often mix Raan and Nasi Pel together for a delightful fusion of tastes.
Next, Mark visits a vendor known for Lantong Balap, a dish made from compressed rice steamed in banana leaves. The vendor skillfully prepares the dish by layering tofu, fried fritters, bean sprouts, and a signature sauce made from fermented shrimp. The result is a sweet, savory, and nutty combination that showcases the best of Indonesian street food.
Continuing the tour, Mark discovers Soo Aam, a rich chicken soup filled with noodles and topped with a generous amount of ovary eggs. The soup is flavored with turmeric and various spices, creating a comforting and hearty dish. Mark enjoys the texture of the shrimp crackers added to the soup, enhancing the overall experience.
Mark also samples local meatballs served with different sauces, including a sweet and sour tomato sauce and a spicy peanut sauce. These meatballs are a popular street food snack, especially among school children.
No visit to Indonesia would be complete without trying satay. Mark visits a vendor known for their coconut-infused satay, where skewers of meat are grilled over a blazing fire. The combination of charred coconut and smoky flavors makes this dish unforgettable. Mark tries various meats, including chicken and beef, all enhanced by a rich peanut sauce.
One of the highlights of Mark's tour is the fried duck from a legendary vendor in Surabaya. Known for its crispy skin and juicy meat, this duck is pre-cooked and then flash-fried to perfection. Served with rice and a spicy sambal, this dish is a true testament to the culinary prowess of Indonesian street food.
Mark concludes his street food adventure with Tahu Chur, a dish featuring a mix of tofu, bean sprouts, and a rich beef broth. The combination of flavors and textures is surprising, with the shrimp paste adding a unique twist to the dish. This hearty meal is both savory and slightly sweet, making it a delightful end to the tour.
Mark's street food tour in Surabaya showcases the incredible diversity and richness of Indonesian cuisine. From comforting soups to crispy fried duck, each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor. Surabaya is a city that welcomes food lovers with open arms, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the vibrant world of street food in Indonesia.
