As you bask in the beauty of Borobudur Temple, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the local culinary treasures surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Magelang area is a food lover's paradise, where you can delight in a vibrant array of dishes that showcase the region's rich flavors and traditions. From savory street snacks to sweet local desserts, each bite offers a taste of the culture and history of this enchanting destination. As you plan your year-end tropical getaway, here are some must-try local dishes that will elevate your Borobudur experience to unforgettable heights:
1. Mangut Beong
Borobudur is famous for its Mangut Beong, a dish that showcases the rich flavors of the region. This dish features the beong fish, which resembles a larger catfish, known for its tender and spicy meat. Fresh beong fish is typically caught from the Progo River, as it is an endemic species found in these waters.
The fish is cooked with a mangut spice mix, similar to a curry but with a thinner, red sauce that is both spicy and savory. Many eateries serving Mangut Beong are scattered throughout Borobudur and Mungkid districts, with notable places like Warung Sehati in Dusun Limus, Kembanglimus Village, located about 4 kilometers from Borobudur Temple, and another at Jalan Jenderal Sudirman No. 444 in Wringin Putih Village.
The best part? Despite the delicious taste, a serving of Mangut Beong is reasonably priced at around IDR 15,000 (approximately USD 1.00).
2. Sop Empal and Nasi Rames Brongkos
Head to Warung Bu Haryoko on Jalan MT Haryono in Magelang for a comforting meal. Here, you can enjoy Sop Empal, a dish featuring tender slices of empal beef in a flavorful broth. The combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors creates a delicious harmony, and a serving of Sop Empal costs about IDR 21,000 (approximately USD 1.40).
In addition, you can try their Nasi Rames Brongkos, which includes rice mixed with vermicelli, fried tofu, and spicy krecek (beef skin) in a thick, flavorful brongkos sauce, reminiscent of rawon. The price is also wallet-friendly at approximately IDR 5,000 (about USD 0.33) per serving.
3. Soto Pak Trimo
Nestled in a small alley off Jalan DI Panjaitan, Soto Pak Trimo is a beloved spot known for its hearty portions of soto, a traditional Indonesian soup. This dish includes a generous amount of shredded chicken, rice, fried tofu, and bean sprouts, all in a clear, fragrant broth topped with lime and sambal for an extra kick.
Each order typically comes with a side of sweet bacem satay, which is skewered offal (liver, heart, and intestines), making it a unique and filling meal. A whole serving of Soto, complete with satay and extra chicken, is around IDR 20,000 (approximately USD 1.33).
4. Kupat Tahu
As you head toward the city of Magelang, don't miss out on Kupat Tahu, a local delicacy that has gained fame, especially among fans of the late First Lady Ani Yudhoyono and former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. Located near the Magelang Square, you’ll find the popular Kupat Tahu Pojok and Pak Slamet, both of which offer a delicious combination of fried tofu, fritters, bean sprouts, and cabbage drizzled with rich peanut sauce.
This delightful dish is often enjoyed with fried snacks or shrimp satay, ensuring a well-rounded meal. You'll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!
5. Es Pleret
For a sweet treat, head to the Semanggi Ice Depot located in the basement of Magelang Plaza. This bustling spot serves a refreshing dessert called Es Pleret, which consists of chewy, sticky rice mixed with young coconut. It’s the perfect way to cool down after a day of exploring.
Prepare for a culinary adventure as memorable as the breathtaking views, complementing the stunning landscapes and cultural wonders of Borobudur and Magelang. Follow @wonderfulIndonesia on Instagram for more food inspiration and the rich culinary heritage of the enchanting archipelago. Get ready to taste the local cuisine and have unforgettable memories during your tropical vacation!
