When it comes to Indonesian cuisine, it is impossible not to mention their mouthwatering array of street food. From nasi goreng to sate ayam, Indonesian street food never fails to satisfy the taste buds of both locals and tourists alike. One of the most popular street food dishes in Indonesia is siomay nyi iteung. In this article, we will explore what siomay nyi iteung is and why it has become a favorite among street food lovers in Indonesia.
What is Siomay Nyi Iteung?
Siomay nyi iteung is a dish that originated from Bandung, West Java. It is a steamed fish dumpling that is stuffed with a mixture of ground fish, tapioca flour, and spices. Siomay nyi iteung is usually served with peanut sauce and topped with fresh vegetables such as cabbage, cucumber, and bean sprouts. It is a popular street food dish that can be found in almost every street food vendor in Bandung.
The History of Siomay Nyi Iteung
The origin of siomay nyi iteung can be traced back to the 1950s, where it was sold by a woman named Nyi Iteung who worked as a street food vendor in Bandung. She sold her siomay on a pushcart in the streets of Bandung, and her siomay quickly became popular due to its unique flavor and affordable price.
As the years passed, siomay nyi iteung continued to gain popularity and eventually became a staple in the street food scene in Indonesia. Today, siomay nyi iteung is not only sold by street food vendors but also in restaurants and cafes throughout the country.
The Ingredients of Siomay Nyi Iteung
The ingredients used in making siomay nyi iteung are simple and affordable. The main ingredient is fish, which can be any type of white fish such as mackerel or snapper. The fish is then ground and mixed with tapioca flour, garlic, salt, and pepper. The mixture is then molded into small dumplings and steamed.
To make the peanut sauce, peanuts are crushed and mixed with garlic, chili, sweet soy sauce, and tamarind juice. The sauce is usually served on top of the siomay and is a perfect complement to the savory taste of the dumplings.
How to Eat Siomay Nyi Iteung
Siomay nyi iteung is best eaten while it is still hot and fresh from the steamer. To eat it, simply dip the siomay into the peanut sauce and enjoy the burst of flavors in your mouth. The fresh vegetables on top of the siomay also provide a refreshing taste to balance out the rich flavor of the peanut sauce and the dumplings.
Why is Siomay Nyi Iteung So Popular?
Siomay nyi iteung has become a popular street food dish in Indonesia due to several reasons. Firstly, it is affordable and can be enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Secondly, the unique flavor of siomay nyi iteung is unlike any other street food dish in Indonesia, making it a favorite among foodies who are always looking for something new to try. Lastly, the fresh vegetables and peanut sauce on top of the siomay provide a well-balanced taste that makes it a satisfying and fulfilling meal.
Where to Find Siomay Nyi Iteung
Siomay nyi iteung can be found in almost every street food vendor in Bandung, especially in the area of Cibadak. It can also be found in restaurants and cafes throughout Indonesia, especially in cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali.
The Verdict
Siomay nyi iteung is a must-try street food dish when you visit Indonesia. Its unique flavor, affordable price, and satisfying taste will surely make your taste buds dance with joy. So the next time you visit Indonesia, make sure to try siomay nyi iteung and experience the savory taste that has captured the hearts of many street food lovers in the country.