The traditional cuisine of Banjar offers a distinctive taste that showcases the richness of local traditions and authentic culinary delights.
Banjarmasin, the capital city of South Kalimantan, also known as the “City of a Thousand Rivers,” captivates visitors not only with its natural beauty and cultural heritage but also with its delectable traditional dishes.
The rich flavors of Banjar cuisine, brimming with spices and tradition, make it a haven for food enthusiasts. Here are 10 must-try Banjar dishes to savor when visiting Banjarmasin.
1. Soto Banjar: Chicken Soup with a Distinctive Flavor
The first must-try dish is Soto Banjar, a legendary culinary gem from the Banjar region. This chicken soup features a clear broth infused with aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, creating its unique flavor.
It’s served with shredded chicken, boiled eggs, and fried potato cakes, accompanied by rice or lontong (rice cakes). A squeeze of lime and a dash of sweet soy sauce can enhance the flavor, though the broth is already incredibly delicious. Soto Banjar is best enjoyed warm, especially on a chilly morning or evening.
2. Lontong Orari: A Savory Breakfast with Red Curry Sauce
Lontong Orari is a traditional Banjar rice cake dish shaped into unique triangles with a soft texture. It is served with a coconut milk-based red curry sauce, featuring the “habang” spices distinctive to Banjar cuisine.
This flavorful dish, one of the beloved Banjar Specialties, is often paired with chicken, eggs, or gabus fish cooked in rich habang spices.
This breakfast favorite is commonly found in traditional Banjar food stalls, offering a savory and spicy flavor that locals love.
3. Pundut Nasi: Fragrant Rice Wrapped in Banana Leaves
For a practical yet delicious breakfast, Pundut Nasi is an excellent choice. This dish consists of rice wrapped in banana leaves and cooked until fragrant.
It is served with habang sauce and paired with sides such as fried gabus fish or salted eggs. The aroma of banana leaves combined with the savory sauce creates an extraordinary flavor.
4. Cacapan Asam: A Simple Yet Flavorful Side Dish
Cacapan Asam is a simple yet flavorful sambal (chili paste) from Banjar. Made with tamarind, shallots, garlic, bird’s eye chili, and shrimp paste, it delivers a tangy, spicy, and savory taste.
This sambal is perfect as a dipping sauce or as a topping for fried fish or plain rice, making it a household favorite in Banjar cuisine.
5. Mie Bancir: Savory Noodles with Rich Toppings
Noodle lovers must try Mie Bancir, a Banjar specialty with a semi-thick broth. The dish uses thick yellow noodles served in a flavorful soup, topped with shredded chicken, boiled duck eggs, and melinjo crackers for added texture.
For an extra zing, add a squeeze of lime. Mie Bancir is an ideal choice for lunch or dinner.
6. Sop Mutiara: Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Milk Broth
Sop Mutiara is a unique soup featuring small chicken meatballs. Unlike traditional soup, its broth is made with milk, nutmeg, and onions, creating a creamy and savory flavor.
This dish pairs perfectly with warm white rice and is best enjoyed in the late afternoon.
7. Nasi Kuning Banjar: The Distinct Banjar-Style Yellow Rice
Unlike yellow rice from other regions, Nasi Kuning Banjar is served with unique sides such as gabus fish in red sauce and shredded coconut. The rice’s soft and fluffy texture, along with the flavorful accompaniments, makes it a popular breakfast choice or a dish for special occasions.
8. Nasi Itik Gambut: Spicy Duck Rice with Banana Leaf Aroma
Nasi Itik Gambut combines rice with duck meat cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce. Wrapped in banana leaves, the dish gains a distinctive aroma that enhances its appeal.
The tender duck meat absorbs the spices perfectly, making this one of Banjarmasin’s culinary highlights.
9. Ketupat Kandangan: Smoked Fish and Rice Cakes in Coconut Milk Broth
Ketupat Kandangan is a traditional Banjar dish served with smoked gabus fish or haruan fish. The thick coconut milk broth has a savory and slightly spicy taste that makes this dish truly special.
What sets this dish apart is the way it’s traditionally eaten—with hands, adding to the authentic experience.
10. Ikan Patin Baubar: Banjar-Style Grilled Catfish in Banana Leaves
As a city surrounded by rivers, Banjarmasin is known for its fish dishes. A must-try is Ikan Patin Baubar, a grilled catfish dish marinated in Banjar spices and wrapped in banana leaves. Grilling the fish enhances its savory taste and gives it a rich, smoky aroma.
Banjar cuisine reflects the unique culture and rich flavors of South Kalimantan. From the legendary Soto Banjar to the authentic Ikan Patin Baubar, each dish offers a different yet equally captivating culinary experience.
When visiting Banjarmasin, don’t miss the chance to savor these 10 traditional dishes. While you’re there, take the opportunity to explore Dayak Specialties, which offer a unique and equally rich culinary experience. Enjoy the rich flavors of Banjar cuisine that will make you want to come back for more!
