Lombok has many unforgettable attractions, and one of them is its unique and flavorful traditional cuisine. It’s no surprise that in Mandalika, you can find many delicious dishes that should not be missed.
Traditional Foods of Mandalika
Since hosting the MotoGP in March 2022, Mandalika has become a priority destination in Lombok. The local government and central authorities have been continuously promoting the area’s potential by developing various tourist attractions. This includes destinations offering authentic Lombok cuisine crafted by the locals of Mandalika, making the dishes distinctive. So, it would be a shame not to try the local specialties while visiting Mandalika. Here are some delicious culinary recommendations that should be on your Mandalika bucket list:
Traditional Foods of Mandalika
Since hosting the MotoGP in March 2022, Mandalika has become a priority destination in Lombok. The local government and central authorities have been continuously promoting the area’s potential by developing various tourist attractions. This includes destinations offering authentic Lombok cuisine crafted by the locals of Mandalika, making the dishes distinctive. So, it would be a shame not to try the local specialties while visiting Mandalika. Here are some delicious culinary recommendations that should be on your Mandalika bucket list:
Your Itinerary
1. Ayam Rarang
The main appeal of this chicken dish is its red spicy sauce. For spice lovers, Ayam Rarang is a must-try. The combination of rich spices makes this dish a flavorful treat. You can easily find Ayam Rarang at local restaurants or stalls in Mandalika.
2. Sambal Beberuk Terung
If Ayam Rarang is not spicy enough for you, don't worry. Mandalika offers a unique sambal made from fresh vegetables like round eggplant, tomatoes, and long beans. This sambal, known as Sambal Beberuk Terung, pairs perfectly with Ayam Rarang, seafood dishes, or Ayam Taliwang.
3. Nasi Balap Puyung
In Java, we have dishes like nasi rames or nasi kucing, but in Mandalika, you should try Nasi Balap Puyung. This dish consists of white rice, spicy shredded beef, fried chicken, sambal, grated coconut, fried soybeans, and sautéed vegetables. Its ingredients make it a great option for a hearty breakfast.
4. Sayur Ares
Not only is the name unique, but the main ingredient in this dish is also unusual—young banana tree stems (plepah). These stems are cooked with coconut milk, spices, chicken bones or meat, and ground chili. This process gives Sayur Ares a distinctive, savory flavor that is warming and comforting, making it a local favorite during the rainy season.
5. Bulayak Satay
While beef satay is commonly found in other regions like Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi, Mandalika prepares it differently. Before grilling, the beef is marinated with spices, giving it a unique flavor and tenderness. The satay is then served with a sauce made from ground roasted peanuts and coconut milk, making the flavor resemble curry. Served with lontong (rice cakes), Sate Bulayak is a local favorite and can be easily found throughout Mandalika.
6. Ayam Taliwang
Ayam Taliwang is a dish you might have heard of before. While you can find it in other places like Bali, it’s best to try it in its place of origin. Prepared with abundant spices, Ayam Taliwang has a distinctive sweet and spicy taste. This dish is typically served with a plate of warm rice, making it even more appetizing.
7. Plecing Kangkung
Like Ayam Taliwang, Plecing Kangkung is also commonly found in Bali. However, the version in Mandalika uses bean sprouts and grated young coconut with seasoning on top. This dish resembles urap-urap from Java. In Bali, Plecing Kangkung is usually served with Ayam Betutu, but in Mandalika, it’s paired with Ayam Taliwang. The combination of these dishes is both spicy and delicious!
1. Ayam Rarang
The main appeal of this chicken dish is its red spicy sauce. For spice lovers, Ayam Rarang is a must-try. The combination of rich spices makes this dish a flavorful treat. You can easily find Ayam Rarang at local restaurants or stalls in Mandalika.
2. Sambal Beberuk Terung
If Ayam Rarang is not spicy enough for you, don't worry. Mandalika offers a unique sambal made from fresh vegetables like round eggplant, tomatoes, and long beans. This sambal, known as Sambal Beberuk Terung, pairs perfectly with Ayam Rarang, seafood dishes, or Ayam Taliwang.
3. Nasi Balap Puyung
In Java, we have dishes like nasi rames or nasi kucing, but in Mandalika, you should try Nasi Balap Puyung. This dish consists of white rice, spicy shredded beef, fried chicken, sambal, grated coconut, fried soybeans, and sautéed vegetables. Its ingredients make it a great option for a hearty breakfast.
4. Sayur Ares
Not only is the name unique, but the main ingredient in this dish is also unusual—young banana tree stems (plepah). These stems are cooked with coconut milk, spices, chicken bones or meat, and ground chili. This process gives Sayur Ares a distinctive, savory flavor that is warming and comforting, making it a local favorite during the rainy season.
5. Bulayak Satay
While beef satay is commonly found in other regions like Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi, Mandalika prepares it differently. Before grilling, the beef is marinated with spices, giving it a unique flavor and tenderness. The satay is then served with a sauce made from ground roasted peanuts and coconut milk, making the flavor resemble curry. Served with lontong (rice cakes), Sate Bulayak is a local favorite and can be easily found throughout Mandalika.
6. Ayam Taliwang
Ayam Taliwang is a dish you might have heard of before. While you can find it in other places like Bali, it’s best to try it in its place of origin. Prepared with abundant spices, Ayam Taliwang has a distinctive sweet and spicy taste. This dish is typically served with a plate of warm rice, making it even more appetizing.
7. Plecing Kangkung
Like Ayam Taliwang, Plecing Kangkung is also commonly found in Bali. However, the version in Mandalika uses bean sprouts and grated young coconut with seasoning on top. This dish resembles urap-urap from Java. In Bali, Plecing Kangkung is usually served with Ayam Betutu, but in Mandalika, it’s paired with Ayam Taliwang. The combination of these dishes is both spicy and delicious!
