Exploring Jogja's Nostalgia Through Traditional Snacks

Experiencing the old-time atmosphere of Jogja is not only possible by strolling through its historic buildings or classic areas but also through its traditional culinary delights that have survived to this day. Some traditional snacks even carry unique stories closely tied to the history and culture of Yogyakarta. For food lovers, here are some legendary treats that are a must-try.

1. Kue Kipo: A Mini Treat with a Sweet and Savory Taste Don't get it wrong, it's not "kue kepo," but kipo! This tiny specialty from Kotagede is made from glutinous rice flour filled with enten-enten, a mixture of grated coconut and palm sugar. Its preparation is unique, as it is grilled on banana leaves, producing a distinctive aroma that tantalizes the taste buds. According to legend, the name kipo comes from people's curiosity, asking, "Iki opo?" which means "What is this?" in Javanese. To this day, this greenish-brown cake is still widely sold around Kotagede Market at an affordable price.

2. Jenang Gempol: A Soft and Sweet Delight for the Palate Jenang gempol is one of Jogja's signature sweet dishes made from rice flour formed into small balls, mixed with grated coconut, and then drizzled with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. Its soft texture and rich, sweet taste make jenang gempol a perfect snack, especially for enjoying a relaxing afternoon.

3. Jadah Tempe: The Legendary Sultan’s Favorite Dish The unique combination of jadah (sticky rice) and tempeh or tofu bacem makes this dish distinctive and beloved by many. Jadah tempe originates from the Kaliurang area and is said to be the favorite snack of Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX. He was so fond of it that he often sent his guards to buy it directly from vendors on the slopes of Mount Merapi. The savory taste of jadah combined with the sweetness of tempeh bacem creates an irresistible harmony of flavors.

4. Jadah Manten: A Symbolic Treat of Eternal Union Jadah manten carries deep philosophical meaning. Initially, this dish was served at wedding ceremonies as a symbol of unity and harmony between the bride and groom. It is made from steamed glutinous rice filled with seasoned chicken, then wrapped in an egg coating and grilled until cooked. Its unique shape, resembling a lemper with a small bamboo stick handle, makes it even more appealing to enjoy.

Preserving Jogja’s Culinary Heritage The diverse traditional snacks of Jogja are not just culinary options but also part of a cultural heritage that needs to be preserved. Tasting and introducing these treats to the younger generation is one way to maintain the richness of Indonesian cuisine. So, when visiting Jogja, don’t forget to hunt for these traditional snacks and savor the nostalgic flavors that have stood the test of time.