Siomay is a popular Indonesian dish that is often served as a snack or appetizer. This steamed dim sum is made of ground fish or shrimp, mixed with tapioca flour, and served with peanut sauce. One of the unique characteristics of siomay is its shape. In this article, we will discuss the different bentuk siomay or shapes of siomay that you can find in Indonesia.
1. Siomay Bandung
The most famous bentuk siomay is from Bandung, a city in West Java. The siomay in Bandung is shaped like a small fish, with a pointed head and a slightly curved body. The fish shape is created by wrapping the siomay mixture in a banana leaf and steaming it. The banana leaf gives the siomay a unique flavor and aroma.
2. Siomay Ayam
Siomay Ayam is a variation of siomay that is made of ground chicken instead of fish or shrimp. The siomay is usually shaped into a round or oval shape, and it is served with peanut sauce and chili sauce. Siomay Ayam is a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter taste compared to the fish or shrimp version.
3. Siomay Udang
Siomay Udang is a siomay that is made of ground shrimp. The shrimp mixture is usually shaped into a small ball or oval shape and is served with peanut sauce and chili sauce. Siomay Udang has a slightly sweeter taste compared to the fish or chicken version, and it is a popular choice for seafood lovers.
4. Siomay Batagor
Siomay Batagor is a combination of two popular Indonesian dishes, siomay and bakso tahu goreng (fried tofu and meatballs). The siomay mixture is wrapped in a thin layer of dough and is deep-fried until crispy. Siomay Batagor is usually served with peanut sauce and sweet soy sauce. The shape of Siomay Batagor is usually round or oval.
5. Siomay Kocok
Siomay Kocok is a popular street food in Bandung. The siomay is usually served with a bowl of beef broth and a sprinkling of fried shallots and celery leaves. The siomay in Siomay Kocok is usually shaped like a small ball or oval shape. The soup adds an extra dimension to the siomay, making it a warm and comforting snack.
6. Siomay Panggang
Siomay Panggang is a baked version of siomay. The siomay mixture is shaped into small balls or patties and is baked in the oven until cooked. Siomay Panggang is a healthier option compared to the steamed or fried version, and it is usually served with sweet soy sauce and chili sauce.
7. Siomay Tahu
Siomay Tahu is a variation of siomay that is made of tofu instead of fish or shrimp. The tofu is usually mixed with vegetables such as carrots and cabbage, and is shaped into small balls or patties. Siomay Tahu is a popular choice for vegetarians or those who want to reduce their meat consumption.
Conclusion
These are just some of the bentuk siomay that you can find in Indonesia. Each shape has its own unique taste and texture, and it is worth trying them all. Siomay is not only a delicious snack but also a part of Indonesian culture. So the next time you visit Indonesia, make sure to try some siomay and experience the local cuisine.