As we navigate the second week of January 2024 (I know some of you are still adjusting to the idea of writing 2024 instead of 2023), the new year has ushered in its own array of captivating surprises. Amidst the diverse culinary wonders that graced 2023, featuring peculiar delights such as Grimache Shakes and the TikTok sensation of Cottage Cheese.Now, drumroll, please! Which recipes did we all Google the most in 2023? Hold onto your culinary curiosity because Papeda made it to the top three!
Papeda Ranked 3 in Most Googled Recipe
Rank number 3 on the top most Googled Recipe in 2023; Papeda was born from the rich culinary traditions of Papua, Maluku, and certain corners of Sulawesi. Imagine a texture akin to translucent white gel or, in the local Inanwatan or Papua language, ‘dao.’ Papeda is not just food but also a symbol of culture and unity in Papua.
This dish, often found at traditional events and other important celebrations, makes it an integral part of Papuan culture and represents the history and traditions of the local community. Served in a luscious, sticky porridge form, its creation involves a meticulous fusion of sago and water, stirred ceaselessly until it achieves a sumptuously thick texture.
Given Papeda’s unique composition, it boasts a flavor profile that is both distinct and wonderfully neutral, making it the perfect companion for boldly seasoned dishes such as succulent shrimp, flavorful fish, or savory meat. The consumption of Papeda differs from that of regular porridge. This unique dish is savored using a specialized fork or chopsticks. The utensil is employed to roll the Papeda porridge into large clumps, which are then arranged on a plate.
Traditionally consumed much like rice, Papeda now has various takes, including rolled Papeda inspired by the classic Telur Gulung and a much-searched-for dish called Papeda Seblak.
Seblak, a Sundanese savory and spicy dish incorporating traditional Indonesian crackers, gained online fame. Indonesian celebrity Rafael Tan, renowned for his viral Seblak creation, “Seblak Rafael,” has introduced another inventive dish – Seblak Papeda. Leveraging the popular sauce from his Seblak recipe, this creative fusion combines the spicy and savory essence of Seblak with Papeda as a substitute for traditional Indonesian crackers.
Where to Get Papeda in Jakarta
Wondering where to savor the delightful flavors of Papeda in Jakarta? Look no further. Yougwa Danau Sentani Restaurant, with its latest branch at Senayan Park, offers an array of East Indonesian culinary delights. Boasting an extensive menu featuring over 100 seafood specialties, you can indulge in the authentic experience of Papeda and the traditional stone-grilling ritual here.