The unique and mouthwatering traditional dishes of Singkawang are a must-try for an unforgettable culinary experience. 

Singkawang, a city in West Kalimantan, is drawing more attention from tourists thanks to its captivating attractions.

Singkawang, often called the City of a Thousand Temples, is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, which is beautifully showcased in its unique culinary offerings.

The local dishes combine traditional Indonesian flavors with authentic Chinese influences. Here are 10 Singkawang Culinary delights that you must try when visiting there.

1. Bubur Paddas

One iconic dish not to be missed is bubur paddas. Despite its name, which suggests a spicy taste, this porridge is not spicy at all.

Its flavor leans more towards savory and refreshing, enhanced by a squeeze of lime juice. Made from ingredients like corn, ferns, water spinach, bean sprouts, fried peanuts, and anchovies, bubur paddas offers a rich blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

2. Bubur Gunting

Bubur gunting is another unique dish. Made from peeled mung beans, this porridge is cooked with sugar water, tapioca flour, and pandan leaves for a fragrant aroma.

It’s named bubur gunting because it is served with small pieces of fried bread or cakwe cut with scissors. This thick, filling dish is often enjoyed as a breakfast staple.

3. Bubur Tahu

Singkawang is known for its production of white tofu, and bubur tahu is one of the unique local creations.

This dish consists of soft tofu drizzled with a warm, sweet ginger syrup. The combination of the sweet and warming ginger creates a comforting sensation, perfect for enjoying during cold or rainy weather.

4. Mie Tiaw Asu

Mie tiaw asu may have a surprising name, but rest assured, it is halal and incredibly tasty. This dish combines yellow noodles and kwetiau stir-fried with vegetables, bean sprouts, chicken, beef, and seafood.

The distinctive feature of mie tiaw asu is the addition of jeruk kunci juice, which adds a refreshing tang to the dish.

5. Choi Pan

Choi pan is a traditional snack from Singkawang that looks similar to dim sum. The skin is made from rice flour, while the filling can include thinly sliced jicama mixed with chicken, fish, shrimp, or pork.

After being steamed, choi pan is served with a sprinkle of fried garlic and soy sauce, creating a savory flavor that delights the palate.

6. Mie Kering Dian

Mie Kering Dian is a favorite dish in Singkawang. This dish features crispy dry noodles topped with chicken pieces and savory seasonings. The combination results in a delicious meal that can be enjoyed anytime, whether as a main course or a snack.

7. Rujak Thai Pu Ji

Rujak Thai Pu Ji is a unique take on the classic fruit salad from Singkawang. Similar to regular fruit salad with peanut sauce, this dish adds a touch of palm sugar.

What sets it apart is the addition of dried shrimp (ebi) and emping crackers, creating a blend of sweet, sour, savory, and spicy flavors in every bite. It’s perfect for refreshing your day.

8. Rujak Ebi

Rujak ebi is a refreshing dish ideal for hot weather, made from a variety of tropical fruits like young mango, papaya, guava, kedondong, jicama, and cucumber.

The fruits are drizzled with a spicy peanut sauce mixed with grated dried shrimp, adding a unique salty and savory taste. The combination of sour, sweet, spicy, and salty flavors creates an irresistible sensation.

9. Mie Asin Singkawang

Mie asin is another dish worth trying in Singkawang, especially during special celebrations like birthdays or Chinese New Year.

This dish features white noodles served with a salty broth or without broth. Although simple in appearance, the flavors are rich and satisfying, making it a must-try.

10. Kue Keranjang

Finally, kue keranjang is an iconic Singkawang delicacy associated with Chinese New Year. Made from glutinous rice and palm sugar, this cake has a soft texture and a rich, sweet taste.

It is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea and is also a popular souvenir to bring home to family.

Singkawang’s traditional cuisine reflects the rich cultural diversity inherent in the city. Each dish embodies an authentic taste, blending traditional flavors and time-honored cooking methods that have been passed down through the generations. Don’t forget to explore North Kalimantan Specialties during your visit and enjoy a taste journey that will be remembered for a lifetime.