1. Ayam Taliwang (Spicy Grilled Chicken)

Ayam Taliwang is perhaps Lombok’s most iconic dish. Originating from the Taliwang region, this dish features chicken marinated in a blend of garlic, chili, shrimp paste, and lime juice, then grilled to perfection. The result is a spicy, smoky flavor that perfectly captures the essence of Lombok. Serve it with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into quarters
• 6 cloves of garlic
• 10 red chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and sugar to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend the garlic, chilies, shrimp paste, lime juice, salt, and sugar into a smooth paste.
2. Marinate the chicken in the paste for at least 1 hour.
3. Grill the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, basting with the remaining marinade.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice.

2. Plecing Kangkung (Spicy Water Spinach Salad)

Plecing Kangkung is a fresh and spicy salad made with water spinach (kangkung), a popular vegetable in Indonesia. The salad is dressed with a fiery sambal sauce made from fresh chilies, tomatoes, shrimp paste, and lime juice. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a light, refreshing appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 2 bunches of water spinach (kangkung)
• 5 red chilies
• 1 tomato
• 1 teaspoon shrimp paste
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and sugar to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the water spinach in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Blend the chilies, tomato, shrimp paste, lime juice, salt, and sugar into a smooth sambal.
3. Toss the blanched water spinach in the sambal sauce.
4. Serve as a side dish or appetizer.

3. Sate Rembiga (Spiced Beef Skewers)

Sate Rembiga is a popular street food in Lombok, consisting of tender beef skewers marinated in a rich, spicy sauce. The beef is typically marinated in a mixture of garlic, chili, coriander, and tamarind before being grilled to smoky perfection. These skewers are perfect for a BBQ or as a savory snack.

Ingredients:

• 500g beef, cut into cubes
• 5 cloves of garlic
• 8 red chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons tamarind juice
• Salt and sugar to taste
• Skewers for grilling

Instructions:

1. Blend the garlic, chilies, ground coriander, tamarind juice, salt, and sugar into a smooth paste.
2. Marinate the beef cubes in the paste for at least 2 hours.
3. Thread the beef onto skewers.
4. Grill the skewers over medium heat until the beef is cooked to your liking.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or as a snack.

Conclusion

These traditional Lombok recipes are not only delicious but also offer a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the island. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes are easy to prepare and sure to impress. So, why not bring a taste of Lombok into your home and enjoy the flavors of this beautiful island with your family and friends?