Ambon’s traditional dishes offer authentic flavors that tantalize the taste buds, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
The city of Ambon, the capital of Maluku Province, not only offers stunning natural beauty but is also rich in its unique culinary heritage. The traditional food of Ambon is a major attraction for tourists who wish to explore local culture through its flavors.
The blend of distinctive spices and traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations makes Ambon’s cuisine a delicious and unforgettable experience.
For culinary lovers, here is a list of Typical Ambon Culinary delights that you must try at least once in your life:
Best Traditional Dishes of Ambon
Ambon offers a variety of distinctive and unique dishes, unlike those found in other parts of Indonesia. Here are some traditional Ambon dishes you should try when visiting the city:
1. Ikan Kuah Pala Banda
Ikan Kuah Pala Banda is one of the legendary dishes that represent the culinary richness of Maluku.
This dish is famous for its fresh fish paired with a rich, flavorful spice broth. Spices such as nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon add a distinctive aroma, while the snapper or grouper is cooked with coconut milk and lime juice, creating a savory, tangy, and aromatic combination.
Ikan Kuah Pala Banda is usually served with warm white rice. Its strong, spice-filled flavor makes this dish not only delicious but also healthy. It’s no wonder this dish is one of the most sought-after by tourists visiting Ambon.
2. Sagu Serut
Sagu Serut is a traditional snack from Ambon made from grated sago mixed with brown sugar and grated coconut. The sago mixture is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked. It has a sweet and chewy texture, making it perfect for a tea or coffee time treat in the afternoon.
Sagu Serut is widely sold in traditional markets and often makes a great souvenir as it is durable and easy to carry. This snack offers a unique flavor that stands apart from modern snacks, providing an authentic culinary experience from Maluku.
3. Bubur Sagu Ubi
Bubur Sagu Ubi is a typical Ambon dish often served as breakfast or dessert. The combination of sago and sweet potato gives a natural sweetness and soft texture, cooked with coconut milk, brown sugar, and pandan leaves. This dish has a fragrant aroma that is quite tempting.
The dish offers a sweet flavor that’s not overwhelming, making it perfect for anyone who loves naturally sweet treats. Bubur Sagu Ubi is best enjoyed warm in the morning, offering the perfect comfort and warmth.
4. Talam Sagu Bakar
Talam Sagu Bakar is a cake made from sago that is baked to create a sweet and savory flavor. This cake is often mixed with candlenuts and brenebon beans, giving it a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the sago.
This cake is typically served with tea or coffee and is often a souvenir from Ambon. Talam Sagu Bakar is a great choice for a relaxing snack or as a treat while gathering with family.
5. Papeda
Papeda is a staple food of the Maluku people made from sago. This dish is served as a thick, sticky porridge, usually enjoyed with savory and spicy fish broth. The way to eat papeda is unique, using a tool called “gata-gata” or bamboo chopsticks.
Papeda has a bland taste, but when eaten with fish broth, the savory and spicy flavors create an extraordinary sensation. This dish is similar to the papeda of Papua, which is served with yellow fish broth. Papeda strongly represents the culture and cuisine of the Maluku people.
6. Sambal Colo-colo
Sambal Colo-colo is a traditional Ambon sambal made from fresh ingredients such as bird’s eye chili, tomatoes, shallots, lemongrass, shrimp paste, and lime juice. Uniquely, this sambal also uses celery to add flavor, providing a fresh aroma that sets it apart from typical sambals.
Sambal Colo-colo is usually served with grilled fish or other seafood dishes. The spicy, tangy, and fresh taste of this sambal complements the savory flavor of grilled fish perfectly. It is an essential part of Ambon’s culinary experience.
7. Kohu-kohu
Kohu-kohu is a fresh vegetable dish from Ambon similar to urap from Java. This dish consists of long beans, bean sprouts, cucumber, and basil leaves mixed with grated coconut and spices like shallots, garlic, and lime juice.
The fresh and savory flavor of kohu-kohu makes it a great side dish or light meal. This dish is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients, making it a healthy option for lunch.
8. Roti Kering Kenari
Roti Kering Kenari is a popular snack from Ambon. This bread is made with a mixture of candlenuts and caramel, then baked until dry and crispy. The savory flavor of the candlenuts blends perfectly with the sweetness of the caramel, creating a distinctive and delicious taste.
This bread is perfect for enjoying in the morning or as a snack with tea in the afternoon. Since it is quite durable, Roti Kering Kenari is often bought as a souvenir by tourists visiting Ambon.
Ambon is not only known for its breathtaking natural beauty and beaches but also for its rich culinary heritage filled with distinctive Maluku spices.
From main dishes like Ikan Kuah Pala Banda and Papeda, to sweet snacks like Sagu Serut and Roti Kering Kenari, every traditional dish from Ambon offers a unique flavor that excites the palate.
By tasting the traditional dishes of Ambon, we not only indulge in delicious flavors but also gain an understanding of the culture and traditions of the Maluku people.
For those planning to visit Ambon, don’t miss the opportunity to try its delicious local cuisine, including Ternate Specialties, and bring home some tasty souvenirs that can only be found in Maluku.
