12 Typical Dishes from Pontianak That Are Not Widely Known, Must Try!

Kapanlagi.com - Who can resist the deliciousness of typical Pontianak food? This city located in Borneo holds a variety of unique dishes that you may not have encountered in other regions of Indonesia. Although its name may be rarely heard, Pontianak possesses a culinary treasure ready to indulge your taste buds with different and appetizing flavors.

The typical dishes of Pontianak are the result of a blend of various cultures and ethnic groups that have long settled there, creating an unmatched diversity of flavors. Not only are there tempting main dishes, but also delicious snacks that you must try when visiting the capital of West Kalimantan.

So, prepare yourself to explore the diverse culinary delights of Pontianak. Below, Kapanlagi.com has summarized some typical Pontianak dishes that you should taste, Monday (30/12/2024).

1. Bingke and Kue Kantong Semar

Bingke, a specialty food from Pontianak made from eggs and flour, comes with an innovative touch through the addition of cheese, chocolate, and even durian, making it the perfect choice for culinary enthusiasts. Its shape, resembling sweet martabak or cheese tart, tempts the taste buds, and its preparation process, similar to that of mud cake, adds to its appeal.

Meanwhile, Kue Kantong Semar, which originates from the interior of West Kalimantan, becomes the star of every regional and national event, even though its existence is limited due to the protection of this plant.

With glutinous rice and red beans steamed in this unique container, Kue Kantong Semar not only tantalizes the palate but also preserves local traditions and culture, making it a must-try souvenir when visiting Pontianak.

2. Fried Srikaya Banana and Pontianak Fish Porridge

Fried Srikaya Banana, a specialty from Pontianak, has captured the attention of many with its tempting deliciousness. The combination of nipah bananas—which can only be found in Pontianak—with srikaya jam made from eggs and coconut milk creates an unmatched flavor, perfect as a companion to warm brewed coffee. It’s no wonder this dish has become a popular breakfast choice, often enjoyed as a dessert in the evening.

Meanwhile, Pontianak Fish Porridge is equally interesting, combining rice, savory broth, fresh vegetables, and a variety of sea or river fish, along with free-range eggs that make it even more delicious and nutritious.

3. Petrus Ice Cream and Chai Kue

Petrus Ice Cream, a culinary icon that has captivated visitors since the 1970s, stands majestically in front of the Petrus School in Pontianak. Anyone who steps foot in this city feels incomplete without tasting its delicious ice cream in various flavors, from the enticing durian to the mouth-watering chocolate.

Uniquely, visitors can enjoy this ice cream in different ways—from a regular cup or directly from a fresh young coconut, making it an unforgettable experience.

No less interesting, Chai Kue, a traditional Chinese dish that has become a favorite among all circles, delights the palate with its soft rice flour skin, filled with fresh vegetables such as chives and jicama, and topped with fragrant fried garlic and appetizing oil. This perfect combination of flavors is sure to leave a deep impression on anyone who tries it!

4. Tau Swan, Pengkang, and Sago Noodles

Behind the glittering night of Pontianak, there is a tantalizing culinary delight, one of which is Tau Swan. This sweet dish, made from sugar water, soybeans, and pieces of sweet cake, has become a favorite snack in every corner of the city, although its origin is from the land of bamboo curtains, which is now hard to find.

Its unique flavor and biting sweetness make Tau Swan the perfect choice to restore stamina after a day of activities, although those with high blood sugar levels should refrain.

No less interesting, there is also Pengkang, a snack made from glutinous rice filled with shrimp, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled until it releases an appetizing aroma.

In addition, sago noodles that are characteristic of Pontianak, with a thick texture and dark brown color, are served with a thick broth rich in spices, creating an unforgettable harmony of flavors.

5. Choi Pan, Sotong Pangkong, and Spicy Porridge

Choi Pan, or commonly known as chai kue, is a traditional dish rich in Chinese cultural nuances and has become a symbol of togetherness among the people of Pontianak for decades. Served with a special chili sauce or sweet soy sauce, this snack offers a tempting harmony of flavors between savory, sweet, and slightly spicy, making it the perfect choice to enjoy at any time.

Equally interesting, Sotong Pangkong presents a unique creation from the people of Pontianak, where dried squid is pounded flat and grilled, resulting in a crispy texture that pairs well with savory and spicy peanut sauce—perfect as a companion for relaxing in the afternoon.

Meanwhile, Spicy Porridge tempts the palate with a combination of rice cooked in thick coconut milk broth and spicy seasonings, complemented by fresh vegetables and pieces of meat or fish, making it a highly favored dish by both locals and visiting tourists.

6. What are the must-try traditional foods of Pontianak?

Don't miss the opportunity to taste the delicious traditional cuisine that tantalizes the palate, such as spicy porridge full of flavor, soft choi pan, delightful pengkang, tempting sotong pangkong, and refreshing Petrus ice cream.

7. Where are the best places to taste traditional cuisine of Pontianak?

Enjoy the tempting culinary delights at traditional markets, lively food festivals, or visit iconic dining spots like the legendary Petrus Ice Cream stall directly.

8. What are the characteristics of Pontianak cuisine compared to other regions?

Pontianak cuisine captivates with its abundance of spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors from various cultures that come together.

(kpl/rmt)