Wakatobi’s traditional cuisine offers a wide variety of dishes, all of which are incredibly delicious! My personal favorite is Perangi, a Wakatobi-style sashimi.
Yes, enjoying Wakatobi’s traditional cuisine is one of the highlights when vacationing in this top Indonesian tourist destination.
Wakatobi isn’t just about its stunning beaches and underwater wonders. Its culinary scene is also a significant attraction for tourists, especially for food lovers like me.
So, pay attention! Here are some Wakatobi culinary delights I recommend you try when visiting:
1. Perangi – Wakatobi’s Special Dish Made from Fresh Fish
I once had a similar dish in Morotai called Gohu Ikan, also made from fresh, raw fish. However, I prefer Perangi. Some call it Wakatobi’s version of sashimi because it uses raw fish. But I don’t think it’s fair to compare the two, as Perangi is prepared with a blend of spices that enhance its flavor. Typically, Perangi is made from fresh reef fish, cleaned of any blood, and finely chopped. It’s then seasoned with salt, spices, and lime juice, which gives it a fresh and tangy taste. The combination of soft fish texture and the citrusy flavor makes Perangi incredibly refreshing and delicious.
2. Luluta – Unique Wakatobi Cuisine Cooked in Bamboo
Luluta, also known as bamboo rice, hails from Binongko Island in Wakatobi. The rice is wrapped in banana leaves, placed inside bamboo, and then roasted over a fire. This unique cooking method is also practiced by the Dayak tribe in Kalimantan. The result is a flavorful dish that pairs well with various side dishes.
3. Kasuami – Wakatobi’s Rice Substitute
Kasuami is a staple food in Wakatobi, often used as a substitute for rice due to the challenges of growing rice in the region. Made from grated and pressed cassava, it’s typically served with fish broth to soften its texture. Kasuami is a unique and essential part of Wakatobi’s culinary tradition, often shaped into an oval before serving.
4. Ikan Parende – A Perfect Companion to Kasuami
No trip to eastern Indonesia is complete without enjoying fish dishes, and Ikan Parende is a must-try in Wakatobi. This flavorful fish soup is the perfect accompaniment to Kasuami, with its rich and savory broth.
5. Sanggara Banda – Wakatobi’s Sweet Snack
Sanggara Banda is a sweet treat made from cassava with a boiled banana filling and topped with grated young coconut. It’s similar to a snack found in Java, though I can’t recall its name. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee in the morning for a delightful start to your day.
6. Kosean No Kaudafa – Unique Vegetable Dish from Wakatobi
Kosean No Kaudafa is a vegetable dish from Kaledupa Island, made from moringa leaves, young coconut, and salt. It’s a refreshing dish that pairs well with Kasuami and grilled or fried fish, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch.
7. Kapusu Nosu – Wakatobi’s Corn-based Porridge
Kapusu Nosu is a traditional Wakatobi corn porridge, also popular in Buton. The dish is often enjoyed with dried fish and spicy sambal, offering a hearty and flavorful meal.
During my week-long vacation in Wakatobi, I didn’t encounter a single dish I didn’t enjoy. Everything was delicious, and some dishes even became favorites, like Perangi. Unfortunately, I only had the chance to try a small portion of Wakatobi’s culinary offerings, and I regret not taking more photos to share. Nonetheless, I hope my descriptions inspire you to explore Wakatobi’s unique and delightful cuisine on your next visit.
So, which Wakatobi dish is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!