South Kalimantan presents typical culinary delights rich in flavor, ranging from Ketupat Kandangan, Soto Banjar, to the unique Iwak Pakasam.

South Kalimantan is known for its unique and appetizing culinary variety, from fish soup to traditional sweet snacks. As a region inhabited by various tribes and cultures, South Kalimantan’s typical food displays a unique blend of alluring flavors.

Dishes from South Kalimantan are rich in spices, varied, and offer a different culinary experience compared to other regions in Indonesia.

The following is a list of Typical South Kalimantan Foods that you must try to enjoy the authentic deliciousness of this region.

1. Ketupat Kandangan

Ketupat Kandangan is an iconic dish originating from the Kandangan area, South Kalimantan. Although similar to ordinary ketupat, what makes it unique is the use of snakehead fish cooked with thick coconut milk sauce.

This snakehead fish is first grilled, producing a distinctive aroma before being doused with a savory coconut milk sauce. This dish is usually served with ketupat cut into pieces, then drizzled with coconut milk sauce.

Ketupat Kandangan is often served as the main dish at various events, especially during family celebrations. Its savory and slightly sweet taste provides a rich and unforgettable sensation.

2. Manday or Mandai Basanga

Manday is a traditional side dish made from cempedak skin that is fried or sauteed until crispy. The distinctive taste of Manday comes from the previously fermented cempedak skin, resulting in a crispy texture and distinctive aroma when fried.

Manday is often a complement to everyday food for the people of South Kalimantan, providing a savory and crunchy touch to every dish.

3. Humbut Alley

Gangan Humbut is a dish made from beef ribs and bamboo shoots (young bamboo), with a rich coconut milk sauce. This dish is usually served with ketupat or lontong, becoming one of the favorite dishes at special events such as weddings or the month of Ramadan.

The crunchy bamboo shoots combine perfectly with the tender ribs, giving a distinctive savory taste with spices. Gangan Humbut is a delicious dish that illustrates the unique taste of South Kalimantan.

4. Soto Banjar

Soto Banjar is a typical soup dish that is famous in South Kalimantan. Shredded chicken is cooked with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, giving it a delicious aroma. This soto is served with ketupat, potato croquettes, and boiled eggs..

The soto soup is rich in spices and has a slightly thick texture, giving it a strong and warm taste on the tongue. Soto Banjar is often enjoyed as an appetizer or a special dish for the family.

5. Tatak Wall

Amparan Tatak is a sweet and soft traditional cake, made from rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, and banana. Similar to nagasari cake, Amparan Tatak is served in a pan and cut into pieces without being wrapped in banana leaves.

This cake is usually enjoyed as an afternoon snack or served to guests. Amparan Tatak is one of the favorite dishes at celebrations or family events in South Kalimantan.

6. Pakasam Fish

Iwak Pakasam, or fermented fish, is a unique specialty dish. Freshwater fish such as snakehead fish are processed using a fermentation technique using salt and glutinous rice, producing a unique sour taste due to fermentation. After the fermentation process, this fish is usually fried until crispy.

Iwak Pakasam has a distinctive sour and savory taste and is often served with warm rice. This dish offers a different taste sensation and is often the choice for those who want to try unusual flavors.

7. Banjarese Bingka

Bingka Banjar is a sweet cake originating from Banjarmasin, very suitable as a souvenir. This cake is made from a mixture of wheat flour, steamed potatoes, eggs, coconut milk, and pandan.

The sweet and legit taste combined with a soft texture, makes it a snack that is perfect to enjoy anytime.

There are several Bingka flavor variants, such as pandan, chocolate, and durian, which can be adjusted to suit your taste. Bingka Banjar is a cake that is often served at big events or as a guest dish.

8. The Point

Pundut is rice wrapped in banana leaves and cooked by steaming. The rice in pundut is usually mixed with coconut milk, creating a soft savory taste. This dish is served with habang seasoning or a typical Banjar red seasoning made from chilies and spices.

Pundut is a simple but flavorful dish. The distinctive aroma of banana leaves makes pundut have its own appeal, often enjoyed as breakfast or everyday food.

9. Banjar Sour Soup

fresh sour soup dish, similar to sayur asam. This dish usually uses fish such as snakehead or patin as the main ingredient. The fresh sour soup with special spices gives a very refreshing taste, perfect to be eaten with warm rice.

Gangan Asam Banjar provides a mild sour sensation and is a very popular dish, especially during hot weather or as a lunch dish.

10. Lamang

Lamang is a typical dish made from sticky rice cooked in bamboo, similar to lontong but with a chewy texture. Lamang is usually served with peanut sauce or salted egg, adding a savory flavor to this dish.

The distinctive aroma of bamboo in lamang provides a unique eating experience. Lamang is often served at big events or as a special food during Eid.

South Kalimantan’s culinary specialties present a variety of flavors, from sweet and savory to sour and spicy. Each dish has a story and flavor that reflects the richness of the region’s culture.

Dishes such as Ketupat Kandangan and Soto Banjar are not only food, but also part of a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation.

If you visit South Kalimantan, don’t miss the opportunity to taste these Typical Banjarmasin Food dishes. Experience the richness of flavors and delights on offer, and take home an unforgettable culinary experience from South Kalimantan.