Discover the delightful world of Surabaya's best traditional snacks. You can try sweet and rich treats, crispy and fluffy, savory, and the chewy goodness. These snacks are a must-try for anyone looking to taste authentic Surabaya flavors.
Surabaya’s Best Traditional Snacks
Bubur Madura
Bubur Madura is a delightful and sweet traditional dessert that combines various types of porridge into one tasty dish. It includes rice flour porridge, black glutinous rice porridge, candil (sweet glutinous rice balls), and sago pearl porridge. These different textures and flavors are brought together with a generous pour of coconut milk and palm sugar, giving it a rich and sweet taste. This dessert is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, often served on banana leaves, which adds a touch of authenticity. You can find Bubur Madura sold by street vendors and in local markets across Surabaya, making it a popular choice for a sweet treat any time of the day.
Cakue
Cakue is a savory snack that originated from Chinese but has become a beloved treat in Surabaya. One of the most legendary spots to enjoy Cakue is at Cakue Peneleh, where they offer both the original version and a stuffed variety filled with chicken and shrimp. The snack is known for its crispy outer layer and soft, fluffy inside, making it a perfect combination of textures. When dipped in their special tangy and spicy sauce, it becomes even more delicious. This snack is particularly popular at Pasar Atom Mall, where people often queue to get their hands on this tasty treat. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or as part of a meal, Cakue is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Lemet
Lemet is a traditional snack made from grated cassava, palm sugar, and grated coconut, all wrapped in banana leaves. This combination is boiled to create a chewy and sweet treat that is both satisfying and flavorful. The natural sweetness from the palm sugar and the richness from the coconut make Lemet a unique and delicious snack. It is commonly sold in traditional markets throughout Surabaya and is often enjoyed as a midday snack or a dessert. The banana leaf wrapping not only adds to the authenticity of the snack but also helps to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Klanting
Klanting, also known as cenil, is a colorful and chewy traditional snack that is a favorite among locals. Made from corn flour, this snack is known for its unique texture and vibrant appearance. It is typically served with grated coconut and drizzled with sweet palm sugar sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Klanting is often found in traditional markets and street food stalls, where it attracts attention with its bright colors and enticing aroma. This sweet treat is not only delicious but also a fun and interesting snack to enjoy, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Lentho
Lentho is a savory snack made from a mixture of grated cassava and cowpeas or mung beans. These ingredients are combined and formed into small patties, which are then fried until crispy. Lentho is often served as a side dish with lontong balap, a traditional Surabaya dish, but it is also enjoyed on its own as a snack. The snack has a savory and slightly nutty flavor, making it a tasty and satisfying treat. Lentho is commonly eaten with petis sauce, a type of fermented shrimp paste, or simply with fresh chili for an extra kick. This snack is widely available in traditional markets and is loved for its rich flavor and satisfying crunch.