Experience the rich and authentic flavors of Medan cuisine, brimming with Indonesian spices and unique characteristics.
Medan, one of Indonesia’s major cities, is renowned for its cultural and traditional diversity. Among Medan’s most prominent cultural treasures is its culinary scene.
With its distinctive flavors, enriched by an abundance of spices and seasonings, Medan cuisine has become a significant attraction not only in North Sumatra but also across the nation.
If you plan to visit Medan, exploring its culinary delights is a must. Here are 10 popular Medan dishes, complete with their unique flavors and presentation styles:
1. Bika Ambon
Despite its name referencing “Ambon,” Bika Ambon is actually a traditional cake originating from Medan. This delicacy features a soft, fibrous, and airy texture with a rich, sweet flavor.
Its distinctive aroma, derived from pandan leaves and lemongrass, sets Bika Ambon apart from other cakes. Medan Specialties, it’s not only delightful to eat but also a top choice for Medan souvenirs.
2. Lontong Medan
A favorite breakfast dish among Medan locals, Lontong Medan offers a rich and flavorful eating experience. It consists of rice cakes served with vegetable curry broth, accompanied by side dishes like tauco, spicy eggs, fried anchovies, and fried noodles.
The combination of savory broth and a variety of side dishes creates a complex and irresistible taste.
3. Soto Medan
Soto Medan is a coconut milk-based soup with a strong, savory flavor profile. Typically, it includes shrimp, chicken, or beef as the main ingredient.
It is served with boiled eggs, potato fritters, fried shallots, and celery, making Soto Medan a satisfying dish suitable for any time of the day.
4. Mi Gomak
Known as “Medan’s spaghetti,” Mi Gomak is a noodle dish served with peanut sauce or coconut milk broth. It is often accompanied by vegetables, eggs, or chicken pieces. Its authentic taste and simple presentation make Mi Gomak a must-try Medan specialty.
5. Nasi Kentut (Fragrant Rice)
Don’t be misled by its name! Nasi Kentut earns its quirky title because it’s cooked using sembukan leaves (Paederia scandens), which emit a unique aroma.
The rice is usually wrapped in banana leaves and served with fried chicken, fish pepes, sautéed vegetables, and sambal terasi. In addition to its delicious taste, the sembukan leaves are known for their digestive health benefits.
6. Nasi Lemak Medan
Although popular in Malaysia, Nasi Lemak is also a favorite in Medan. This dish features rice cooked in coconut milk, served with anchovies, boiled eggs, sambal, and optional protein such as chicken or beef.
The savory taste of coconut milk perfectly complements the spicy sambal, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
7. Kari Bihun
Medan’s Kari Bihun reflects the influence of Indian culture on its local cuisine. This dish comprises vermicelli noodles served with rich, spiced curry broth, free-range chicken or beef, and boiled eggs.
The spice-laden broth delivers a warm, tantalizing flavor, making it a perfect choice for cooler weather.
8. Bihun Bebek (Duck Vermicelli)
Bihun Bebek is a signature Medan dish featuring duck broth with a savory, spice-infused taste. Tender duck meat is served with vermicelli noodles, fried shallots, and pickled chili. This dish is highly popular in Medan, with iconic eateries like Bihun Bebek Amin drawing regular crowds.
9. Lemang
Lemang is a traditional treat made from glutinous rice cooked in bamboo with coconut milk and pandan leaves.
Its chewy, soft texture combines with the savory flavor and unique pandan aroma. Lemang is often paired with grated coconut or palm sugar, making it a delicious sweet snack.
10. Dodol Medan
Dodol Medan is a sweet treat made from a mixture of palm sugar, coconut milk, and glutinous rice. With its chewy texture and rich sweetness, dodol is a sought-after Medan souvenir.
Beyond the original flavor, modern variants like durian dodol add a unique twist to this traditional delight.
The Richness of Medan Cuisine
The allure of Medan cuisine lies in its generous use of spices and unique cooking methods. Each dish reflects a fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Batak influences, creating Medan’s distinctive culinary identity. It’s no wonder that Medan cuisine continuously captivates food enthusiasts.
When visiting Medan, don’t miss the opportunity to savor its iconic dishes, including Padang Specialties. Beyond pleasing your palate, exploring Medan’s culinary scene offers a memorable cultural experience. So, which dish will you try first?
