Pempek
Also known as: empek-empek, empek empek, pempek palembang, pempek kapal selam, mpek-mpek
What is Pempek?
Traditional fish cakes from Palembang, South Sumatra. Ground fish is mixed with tapioca flour, shaped into various forms, steamed then fried. Served with cuko, a distinctive sweet-sour vinegar dipping sauce with chili and garlic.
Typical Ingredients
Allergen Information
Always confirm with restaurant staff before ordering.
Fish is the core ingredient. Pempek kapal selam variety contains a whole egg inside. Cuko sauce contains vinegar (potential sulphites).
Safer Variations
Allergen-friendly alternatives to ask for.
Questions to Ask Staff
Important questions to confirm with restaurant staff.
More Indonesian Dishes
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A spicy beef bone soup from Palu, Central Sulawesi. Large beef bones with marrow are served in a clear, aromatic broth. Diners use a straw to extract the rich bone marrow — a central part of the eating experience.
Sate Babi
Pork satay popular in Bali and Chinese-Indonesian communities. Marinated pork pieces are grilled on skewers and served with a sweet soy or peanut sauce. Unlike most Indonesian satay, this version uses pork and is not halal.
Sate Ponorogo
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Nasi Timbel
A Sundanese rice dish where steamed rice is wrapped in banana leaf, giving it a distinctive aroma. Served as a set meal with fried chicken, sambal, tempeh, tofu, lalapan (raw vegetables), and sayur asem. A complete West Javanese meal.
Acar
A traditional Indonesian mixed vegetable pickle. Cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and long beans are cut into strips and pickled in a lightly sweet vinegar brine with chili and sliced shallots. Served as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled and fried dishes.
Good for These Diets
Based on this dish's typical allergen profile, it may be suitable for:
Important Disclaimer
Allergen information is based on typical recipes and may vary by restaurant, region, or preparation method. Always confirm with restaurant staff before ordering.