Malang, a charming city in East Java, is renowned for its rich culinary traditions. During Ramadan, the city transforms into a food paradise, offering a variety of unique dishes that are only available during this holy month. From traditional sweets to savory delights, these specialties add to the festive atmosphere and become an integral part of iftar (breaking the fast) for locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will explore some of Malang’s must-try Ramadan-exclusive culinary delights.
1. Traditional Ramadan Snacks and Appetizers
During Ramadan, Malang’s streets and markets come alive with vendors selling special snacks and appetizers. These dishes are a staple for breaking the fast and are enjoyed by many for their delicious flavors and cultural significance.
Kicak
Kicak is a rare treat found only during Ramadan in Malang. Made from steamed cassava mixed with grated coconut and palm sugar, this sweet delicacy has a soft and chewy texture. It is usually served with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, adding an extra layer of nuttiness to the flavor.
Kolak Pisang
Kolak Pisang is a warm and comforting dessert made of bananas cooked in coconut milk, palm sugar, and pandan leaves. Sometimes, sweet potatoes, cassava, and even black sticky rice are added for extra texture and flavor. This dish is a favorite during iftar due to its energy-boosting properties.
Es Pisang Ijo
Es Pisang Ijo is a refreshing dessert that is only widely available in Malang during Ramadan. It consists of banana wrapped in a green pandan-flavored rice flour dough, served with coconut milk, syrup, and crushed ice. The combination of sweet, creamy, and cold elements makes it a perfect drink-dessert hybrid to cool off after fasting all day.
2. Savory Dishes Exclusive to Ramadan in Malang
In addition to sweet treats, Malang is also known for its special savory dishes that appear only during Ramadan. These foods are often sold in pop-up food stalls and night markets that emerge across the city during the holy month.
Tahu Campur Ramadan
Tahu Campur, a dish consisting of fried tofu, beef, rice cakes, and savory broth, gets a Ramadan twist in Malang. During this season, vendors add unique ingredients like spiced egg or crispy fried shallots to enhance the taste, making it even more special and sought after by locals.
Ayam Lodho Ramadan
Ayam Lodho is a signature Javanese dish, but during Ramadan in Malang, this rich coconut milk chicken stew becomes more widely available. The slow-cooked chicken is infused with a blend of aromatic spices and grilled before being stewed, creating a deeply flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or ketupat.
Rujak Cingur Ramadan Edition
Rujak Cingur, a traditional East Javanese salad made with vegetables, fruits, and slow-cooked beef snout (cingur), gets a Ramadan makeover in Malang. Special sauces and additional ingredients such as shredded chicken and quail eggs make it a must-try dish exclusive to this season.
3. Unique Beverages and Desserts for Iftar
A Ramadan feast in Malang would not be complete without refreshing drinks and desserts that help rehydrate and energize those who have been fasting all day. Some of these beverages are rarely found outside of Ramadan, making them extra special during this time of year.
Es Dawet Jabung
Es Dawet Jabung is a traditional Malang drink made of cendol (green rice flour jelly), coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup. While it can be found year-round, its popularity peaks during Ramadan when vendors prepare larger batches to meet demand. This cooling beverage is a favorite choice for breaking the fast.
Wedang Angsle Ramadan Special
Wedang Angsle is a warm dessert soup that is especially enjoyed during chilly Ramadan evenings in Malang. Made from coconut milk, glutinous rice balls, pandan leaves, and mung beans, this dish provides comfort and warmth after a long day of fasting.
Cendol Durian Malang
A special Ramadan treat, Cendol Durian Malang is an indulgent drink featuring traditional cendol with the addition of creamy durian pulp. This rare combination is a seasonal delight that attracts many durian lovers looking for a unique iftar experience.
Conclusion
Ramadan in Malang is not only a time of spiritual reflection but also a season of culinary celebration. The city comes alive with unique dishes and drinks that are only available during this holy month, creating a rich and festive food culture. From traditional snacks like Kicak and Kolak Pisang to hearty meals like Ayam Lodho and Tahu Campur Ramadan, the flavors of Malang’s Ramadan specialties are deeply rooted in tradition and community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing these exclusive culinary delights during Ramadan is a must. So, if you find yourself in Malang during this special time, make sure to explore the local food markets and indulge in these once-a-year delicacies!