15 Best Traditional Foods From North Sumatra

Hey guys! Are you planning a culinary adventure to North Sumatra? You're in for a treat! North Sumatra is famous for its stunning natural beauty and super delicious traditional cuisine. From savory dishes bursting with spices to sweet treats that will make your taste buds dance, North Sumatra has something for everyone. Let's dive into 15 of the best traditional foods you absolutely have to try!

1. Bika Ambon: The Sweet Icon

When you think of North Sumatra, especially Medan, Bika Ambon is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. This isn't your average cake; it's a culinary icon. Bika Ambon is known for its unique honeycomb-like texture and its sweet, caramelized flavor. Made from ingredients like tapioca flour, coconut milk, sugar, and eggs, this cake undergoes a special fermentation process that gives it its distinctive spongy interior and golden-brown crust. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!

What makes Bika Ambon truly special is the meticulous process involved in making it. The batter has to be fermented just right, and the baking requires a steady hand and a keen eye. You'll find Bika Ambon in various flavors these days, from the original pandan to chocolate and cheese, but the classic flavor remains a timeless favorite. Whether you buy it as a souvenir or enjoy it with a cup of coffee, Bika Ambon is a must-try when you're in North Sumatra. Each bite offers a perfect blend of sweetness and a slightly chewy texture that's simply irresistible. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a taste of North Sumatra's rich culinary heritage.

2. Medan Durian: The King of Fruits

Alright, durian lovers, this one's for you! Medan Durian is legendary, and for good reason. North Sumatra is prime durian territory, and the local varieties are known for their intense flavor and creamy texture. Whether you love it or hate it, durian is an experience. In Medan, you'll find durian sold everywhere from roadside stalls to specialized durian shops. The experience of eating durian in Medan is unlike any other.

The best way to enjoy Medan Durian is to dive right in! Find a reputable seller, pick your durian, and have them open it for you on the spot. The aroma will hit you immediately – a mix of sweet, savory, and pungent. The flesh should be creamy, almost like custard, and the flavor is a complex blend of sweet, bitter, and nutty. Some people describe it as tasting like almonds and cheese! If you're new to durian, start with a small piece and see how you like it. And remember, durian is best enjoyed fresh. So, if you are in North Sumatra, make sure to experience the king of fruits.

3. Arsik: The Batak Fish Dish

Arsik is a signature dish of the Batak people of North Sumatra. This isn't just any fish dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece. Arsik typically features carp (ikan mas) cooked in a rich, aromatic sauce made from a blend of spices, herbs, and torch ginger (kecombrang). The cooking process is slow and deliberate, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The result is a dish that's both savory and tangy, with a hint of spice.

What sets Arsik apart is the use of unique ingredients like andaliman (Batak pepper), which gives the dish a distinctive citrusy and slightly numbing flavor. The fish is often cooked whole, and the sauce is poured over it repeatedly during the cooking process to ensure that it's infused with flavor. Arsik is traditionally served during special occasions and celebrations, but you can find it in many restaurants throughout North Sumatra. It’s a dish that tells a story, connecting you to the culture and traditions of the Batak people. Each bite is a burst of flavor, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.

4. Saksang: A Bold Pork Dish

For those who enjoy bold flavors, Saksang is a must-try. This is a traditional Batak dish made from minced pork cooked in pig's blood and a blend of spices. Yes, you read that right – pig's blood! It might sound intimidating, but Saksang is a beloved dish in North Sumatra, known for its rich, savory flavor and tender meat. The spices, including chilies, garlic, ginger, and shallots, give the dish a spicy kick.

The key to a good Saksang is the balance of flavors. The spices need to be just right, and the pork has to be cooked until it's perfectly tender. Some variations of Saksang also include coconut milk, which adds a creamy richness to the dish. Saksang is often served during traditional ceremonies and family gatherings, but you can find it in many Batak restaurants. It’s a dish that showcases the resourcefulness and culinary creativity of the Batak people. If you're feeling adventurous, give Saksang a try – you might just discover your new favorite dish!

5. Mie Gomak: The Batak Noodle Delight

Mie Gomak is a popular noodle dish from the Batak region. Mie Gomak is often called "Spaghetti Batak" because the noodles are thick, similar to spaghetti. It is served with a spicy and flavorful sauce. The noodles are typically boiled and then mixed with a sauce made from coconut milk, chilies, and various spices. You can find Mie Gomak in two main variations: dry and soup.

The dry version of Mie Gomak is tossed with the spicy sauce, while the soup version is served in a rich broth. Both are equally delicious and satisfying. The spiciness of the sauce can vary, so be sure to ask if you prefer it mild or extra hot! Mie Gomak is a staple food in North Sumatra and is easy to find at local warungs (small eateries) and restaurants. It’s a quick, tasty, and affordable meal that will give you a true taste of Batak cuisine. Whether you're a noodle lover or just looking for a flavorful dish, Mie Gomak is a must-try.

6. Dali Ni Horbo: Batak Cheese

Have you ever tried cheese made from buffalo milk? Dali Ni Horbo is a traditional Batak cheese made from fresh buffalo milk, and it's a unique culinary experience. Dali Ni Horbo has a slightly sour and creamy taste, similar to ricotta cheese. The cheese is made by curdling the buffalo milk with papaya leaves, which helps to separate the curds from the whey. The curds are then drained and pressed to form the cheese.

Dali Ni Horbo is often eaten as a side dish or used in various Batak dishes. It’s a great source of protein and calcium, and it offers a different flavor profile compared to cow's milk cheese. You can find Dali Ni Horbo at local markets and in some restaurants that specialize in Batak cuisine. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of the Batak people, who have found creative ways to use local ingredients to create delicious and nutritious food. If you're a cheese lover, Dali Ni Horbo is a must-try when you're in North Sumatra.

7. Lappet: A Traditional Cake

Lappet is a traditional Batak cake made from rice flour, grated coconut, and palm sugar. This sweet treat is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked. Lappet is a popular snack in North Sumatra, especially during traditional ceremonies and family gatherings. The combination of rice flour, coconut, and palm sugar creates a moist, sweet, and slightly chewy texture that's simply irresistible.

There are several variations of Lappet, including some that add a touch of pandan for extra flavor. The banana leaves give the cake a subtle aroma that enhances the overall taste. Lappet is easy to find at local markets and traditional cake shops. It’s a simple yet delicious snack that embodies the flavors of North Sumatra. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea or as a sweet ending to a meal, Lappet is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

8. Lemang: Glutinous Rice Cooked in Bamboo

Lemang is a traditional dish made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and salt, cooked inside a bamboo stalk. The bamboo imparts a unique aroma and flavor to the rice, making it incredibly delicious. Lemang is often cooked over an open fire, which adds a smoky flavor to the rice. It’s a popular dish during festive occasions, such as Eid al-Fitr and other celebrations.

The process of making Lemang is quite fascinating. The glutinous rice is first soaked in water and then mixed with coconut milk and salt. The mixture is then carefully poured into a bamboo stalk lined with banana leaves. The bamboo is then placed over an open fire and cooked until the rice is tender and the coconut milk has been absorbed. Lemang is often eaten with rendang, curries, or other savory dishes. It’s a dish that showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people of North Sumatra. The rice has a creamy and savory taste, it’s a must-try when you're in North Sumatra.

9. Bolu Gulung Meranti: The Famous Swiss Roll

Bolu Gulung Meranti is a type of Swiss roll cake that has become a culinary icon in Medan. Known for its soft, moist texture and delicious fillings, Bolu Gulung Meranti is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The cake is made from a light and airy sponge cake that is rolled with various fillings such as cheese, chocolate, peanut butter, and strawberry jam.

What sets Bolu Gulung Meranti apart is its consistent quality and the wide variety of flavors available. The cake is always fresh and moist, and the fillings are rich and flavorful. Bolu Gulung Meranti is a popular souvenir for visitors to Medan, and you can find it at the original Meranti bakery as well as at many other shops throughout the city. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee or a gift to take home, Bolu Gulung Meranti is a great choice.

10. Soto Medan: A Creamy Soup Delight

Soto Medan is a rich and creamy soup that’s a must-try for any foodie visiting North Sumatra. Unlike other soto variations in Indonesia, Soto Medan is known for its use of coconut milk, which gives it a rich and creamy texture. The soup is typically made with chicken or beef, potatoes, sprouts, and a blend of aromatic spices.

The key to a great Soto Medan is the spice blend. Ingredients like coriander, cumin, turmeric, and galangal create a complex and flavorful broth. The soup is often garnished with fried shallots, celery, and a squeeze of lime juice. Soto Medan is a popular dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and you can find it at many warungs and restaurants throughout Medan. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.

11. Babi Panggang Karo (BPK): Roasted Pork

Babi Panggang Karo (BPK) is a signature dish of the Karo people, an ethnic group in North Sumatra. This dish features roasted pork that is marinated in a blend of traditional spices. BPK is known for its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. The pork is typically roasted over an open fire, which gives it a smoky aroma and enhances the flavor.

The marinade for BPK usually includes ingredients like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and chilies. The pork is marinated for several hours before being roasted, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. BPK is often served with a side of sambal (chili sauce) and a sour vegetable soup called sayur asam. It’s a popular dish during traditional ceremonies and family gatherings, but you can also find it at many restaurants that specialize in Karo cuisine. If you're a pork lover, BPK is a must-try when you're in North Sumatra.

12. Manuk Napinadar: Chicken with Blood Sauce

Manuk Napinadar is a traditional Batak dish made from chicken cooked in a sauce of its own blood, spices, and andaliman pepper. This dish might sound unusual, but it's a delicacy in North Sumatra, known for its rich and savory flavor. Manuk Napinadar is often prepared for special occasions and traditional ceremonies.

The chicken is typically grilled or roasted before being cooked in the blood sauce. The sauce is made by mixing the chicken's blood with a blend of spices, including garlic, ginger, and andaliman pepper, which gives the dish a unique citrusy and slightly numbing flavor. Manuk Napinadar is a testament to the culinary creativity of the Batak people, who have found innovative ways to use every part of the animal. If you're feeling adventurous, give Manuk Napinadar a try – you might be surprised at how delicious it is.

13. Tasak Telu: A Trio of Meats

Tasak Telu is a traditional Karo dish that features a combination of three different types of meat: chicken, pork, and beef. These meats are cooked together in a flavorful sauce made from a blend of spices, herbs, and vegetables. Tasak Telu is a popular dish during traditional ceremonies and family gatherings, symbolizing unity and togetherness.

The sauce for Tasak Telu typically includes ingredients like turmeric, galangal, ginger, and chilies. The meats are cooked until they are tender and infused with the flavors of the sauce. Tasak Telu is often served with rice and a side of vegetables. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that showcases the diversity of Karo cuisine. If you're looking for a dish that offers a variety of flavors and textures, Tasak Telu is a great choice.

14. Anyang: A Fresh Coconut Salad

Anyang is a refreshing salad made from shredded coconut, young fern leaves, and spices. This dish is a popular side dish in North Sumatra, known for its light, fresh, and slightly spicy flavor. Anyang is often served with grilled fish or chicken, adding a burst of flavor and texture to the meal.

The coconut is typically toasted before being mixed with the other ingredients, which gives it a nutty and slightly smoky flavor. The fern leaves are blanched to soften them, and the spices, including chilies, garlic, and shallots, add a spicy kick. Anyang is a great way to add some freshness and flavor to your meal. It’s a light and healthy dish that’s perfect for a hot day.

15. Es Timun Serut: Refreshing Cucumber Ice

Last but not least, Es Timun Serut is a refreshing dessert drink made from grated cucumber, lime juice, sugar syrup, and ice. This drink is a popular way to cool down in the hot and humid climate of North Sumatra. Es Timun Serut is light, refreshing, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect way to end a meal.

The cucumber is grated using a special tool that creates long, thin strands. The grated cucumber is then mixed with lime juice, sugar syrup, and ice. Some variations of Es Timun Serut also include basil seeds or mint leaves for added flavor. Es Timun Serut is easy to find at street vendors and restaurants throughout North Sumatra. If you want to quench your thirst and refresh your palate, Es Timun Serut is the perfect choice.

So, there you have it – 15 amazing traditional foods from North Sumatra that you absolutely have to try! From savory dishes bursting with spices to sweet treats that will make your taste buds dance, North Sumatra has something for everyone. Happy eating, guys!