Lampung, Indonesia – If you’re planning a trip to the southern tip of Sumatra, make sure to bring your appetite. Lampung, a province rich in culture and natural beauty, also boasts a variety of delicious traditional dishes that reflect its vibrant heritage.
Fortunately, sampling local delicacies here is easy. From local markets to specialized food stalls, Lampung makes it simple for both local and international tourists to enjoy authentic flavors. Here are five must-try traditional dishes from Lampung, curated by Saibumi.com, each with its own unique story and taste.
1. Seruit: The Quintessential Taste of Lampung
No visit to Lampung is complete without trying Seruit. This beloved dish is made from grilled freshwater fish, mixed with sambal terasi (fermented shrimp paste chili sauce), and often blended with either tempoyak (fermented durian) or mango for a sweet and tangy kick.
Freshwater fish like bawal, nila, or lele—commonly caught in Lampung’s rivers—are the stars of this dish. Locals often enjoy Seruit together in a communal setting, making it not just a meal, but a cultural experience.
2. Gulai Taboh: A Heritage Dish for Special Occasions
Gulai Taboh is a traditional curry dish typically served during cultural ceremonies. It features either fresh sea fish or river fish, such as mujair (tilapia), which is sometimes smoked overnight and called iwa tapa semalam.
When made with smoked fish, the dish is seasoned simply with keluak (a type of black nut), giving it a rich earthy flavor. If prepared with sea fish, the recipe expands to include peanuts, melinjo fruit, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and various vegetables simmered in coconut milk—creating a flavorful, hearty stew.
3. Sate Ikan Tuhuk: Skewered Blue Marlin, Local Style
Unlike the usual chicken or lamb satay, Lampung offers a unique twist: Sate Ikan Tuhuk, made from the firm meat of the blue marlin, known locally as ikan tuhuk. Its dense texture makes it perfect for skewering and grilling, as the meat stays intact over open flames.
Marinated in a blend of local spices, this seafood satay delivers bold flavors with every bite. It’s a perfect snack or side dish for seafood lovers looking for something different.
4. Umbu: The Wild Taste of Young Rattan
One of the most intriguing dishes on this list is Umbu, made from young rattan shoots. The rotan is boiled until soft, then either stir-fried or served as a side dish. Despite its wild origin, Umbu has found its place in Lampung kitchens as a beloved traditional food.
Its slightly bitter taste can be balanced with other vegetables or ingredients, depending on preference. Umbu is often enjoyed as part of a humble village meal, showcasing the locals’ resourceful use of nature’s bounty.
5. Sekubal: The Sticky Rice Cake of Celebrations
Often appearing during Ramadan or traditional ceremonies, Sekubal is a sticky rice cake made from glutinous rice and coconut milk. The mixture is wrapped tightly in banana leaves and slow-cooked for 8 to 10 hours, a process requiring patience and precision.
Once cooled, Sekubal is unwrapped and sliced into pieces around 5 cm thick, with banana leaf segments placed between each slice. It’s commonly served with rendang or serundeng (spiced grated coconut), making it both a festive and filling dish.
From riverside flavors to jungle ingredients, Lampung’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture. So next time you find yourself in this Sumatran province, don’t miss the chance to taste these five traditional foods. You won’t just be enjoying a meal—you’ll be taking a flavorful journey through the heart of Lampung.
