Discover a variety of mouth-watering North Sumatran specialties, from Bika Ambon to Medan Curry, and experience the richness of the archipelago’s flavors.
North Sumatra is not only famous for its natural beauty such as Lake Toba and Batak culture, but also has a variety of culinary specialties that are so rich in flavor.
Each region in the province offers unique flavors inspired by local traditions and spices. Here are 10 typical North Sumatran foods that you must try to experience the rich culture and cuisine of this region.
1. Bika Ambon: Medan’s Legendary Culinary Icon
Despite its name “Ambon,” Bika Ambon actually originates from Medan City. The name is said to come from Jalan Ambon, where the food was first produced.
Bika Ambon is made from a mixture of eggs, sugar, coconut milk, and palm sap that is fermented for seven hours. This fermentation process creates a chewy texture with small holes on the inside. Its distinctive sweet taste makes Bika Ambon a favorite souvenir from Medan.
2. Mie Gomak: Batak-style spaghetti
Mie Gomak, often nicknamed “Batak spaghetti,” is a typical food made from lidi noodles or large noodles. The name “gomak” comes from the way it is served, where the noodles are “digomak” or held in the hands.
Mie Gomak can be served with spicy coconut milk sauce that uses andaliman as a typical Batak spice. Sometimes, these noodles are also cooked like fried noodles.
The unique taste sensation of andaliman spices makes Mie Gomak a must-try dish and a highlight of Typical North Sumatra Food.
3. Sambal Tuktuk: Tempting Andaliman Sambal
Sambal Tuktuk comes from Tapanuli and has basic ingredients of onion, candlenut, lime, and andaliman, a typical spice of North Sumatra. This sambal is usually mixed with aso-aso fish (dried fish) or fresh anchovies.
fresh taste of this chili sauce is perfect as an accompaniment to hot rice and side dishes such as grilled fish or chicken. The unique taste of andaliman provides a spicy sensation that bites but is alluring.
4. Arsik: Yellow Spiced Carp Rich in Spices
Arsik is a traditional Batak dish that usually uses carp. The characteristic of this dish is the use of local spices such as andaliman, asam cikala (torch ginger), galangal, and lemongrass.
Fish is cooked with spices smeared on its body, then cooked slowly until the spices are perfectly absorbed. The savory taste and distinctive aroma of torch ginger make Arsik a special dish.
5. Dali Ni Horbo: Traditional Cheese from Buffalo Milk
Dali Ni Horbo is a processed buffalo milk that is cooked until it forms lumps similar to cheese. The process of making it is very traditional without chemicals, using pineapple water or papaya leaves to remove the fishy smell.
Dali Ni Horbo is usually served as an accompaniment to rice and other side dishes. The savory taste with a soft texture makes this dish very popular.
6. Anyang Pakis: Traditional Vegetable Rich in Spices
Anyang Pakis is a dish made from ferns mixed with roasted grated coconut. Spices such as lime leaves, lemongrass, coriander, and shallots provide a distinctive savory taste.
In addition to ferns, this dish can also be added with other vegetables such as bean sprouts, long beans, or papaya leaves. Anyang Pakis is often an accompaniment to the main food in the culinary tradition of North Sumatra.
7. Natinombur: Grilled Fish with Special Seasoning
Natinombur is a dish made from grilled fish served with special spices on top. Natinombur spices usually consist of andaliman, shallots, ginger, candlenuts, and lime.
Traditionally, the spices are boiled before being ground, but nowadays they are often stir-fried to produce a stronger aroma. Fish such as tilapia or carp are often used for this dish.
8. Manuk Napinadar: Grilled Chicken with Andaliman Chili Sauce
Manuk Napinadar is a typical Batak roast chicken dish served with roasted coconut (serundeng) and andaliman chili sauce. The free-range chicken used is usually roasted until tender, then coated with a special spicy seasoning that is very appetizing.
This dish is often served at traditional events or special celebrations, making it a culinary symbol closely linked to Batak tradition.
9. Mussel Satay: A Unique Snack from Medan
Sate Shellfish is a typical Medan food that uses shellfish meat as the main ingredient. The mussels are skewered using a stick, then cooked with special spices rich in spices.
Sate Kerang is usually available in three flavors: original, spicy, and sweet spicy. Its unique taste and chewy shellfish texture make it a favorite snack that is easily found in traditional markets in Medan.
10. Medan Curry: A Curry Dish with Indonesian Characteristics
Medan curry is one of the typical dishes influenced by Indian culinary traditions. This curry has a thick, yellow sauce rich in spices, containing vegetables, rice noodles, and meat.
The taste of this curry is very distinctive because of the use of local spices that create a savory taste and tempting aroma. Medan Curry is often used as the main menu in family events or as an everyday meal.
North Sumatra is a paradise for food lovers who want to explore the flavors of the archipelago. From the sweet Bika Ambon to the spicy Manuk Napinadar, each of the region’s signature dishes offers an unforgettable experience.
If you visit North Sumatra, don’t miss the opportunity to taste these 10 Typical Medan Foods. Experience the richness of flavors that combine tradition, culture, and local ingredients in every bite. Enjoy!
