These are a few of our favourite things...
When moving to any new place, (be it a town, city or country), it takes time to discover the local secrets. Since arriving in Jakarta, Liz and I have gradually uncovered some little treasures that we are excited to share, especially so, as these products are either locally made or locally grown.
So if you are new to town, firstly 'Welcome!'
We hope this information is of use to you and most importantly, enjoy your Indonesian adventure.
1. Tolak Angin
Why? Immediately gives you a boost when you suspect a common cold might be coming your way. Likewise, if you have a sore stomach, it relieves bloating and discomfort. Made from natural ingredients such as ginger, honey, mint and bitter fennel.
There is also a children's variety, 'Tolak Angin Anak', which is more mild and is more palatable for the kids.
Where? Supermarket, some of the small toko-toko* on the side of the road or Chemists (Apotek)
2. Coconut Sugar (especially Javara's Organic Coconut Sugar)
Why? Coconut Sugar has a lower GI than most other sugars. It is also one of the better options in terms of environmentally sustainable sugars. It imparts a rich, caramel-like flavour in cooking and can be mixed with other sugars to maintain the desired texture in baked goods. (By the way, Javara also makes a fantastic cold pressed coconut oil).
Where? Javara or your local supermarket (e.g.: Hero Supermarket, Kem Chicks, Ranch Market)
3. Sate Bumbu Block (and also Gado Gado Bumbu Block)
Why? According to its label, there are no preservatives or hidden nasties! Whip up a tasty sate sauce in a matter of seconds (just boil the kettle and add hot water to the grated bumbu).
Where? Your local supermarket (e.g.: Hero, Kem Chicks, Ranch Market)
4. Jeruk Nipis
Why? For all of your citrus needs. Buying imported limes or lemons is extremely expensive and not really necessary. The locally grown Jeruk Nipis are a much cheaper alternative. Just make sure you have a juicer at hand. Jeruk nipis will become a staple in your fridge. To loosen the juice from the flesh, either roll on a hard surface or put the fruit in a microwave for 10 seconds. We added the juice of jeruk nipis to our hummus recipe.
Where? Local supermarket, local fruit vendor or grow your own jeruk nipis tree
5. Jeruk Bali
Why? Jeruk Bali is Indonesia's own pomelo. It offers texture, visual delight and juiciness to drinks, salads or a fruit platter. The enormous size of the jeruk bali also serves as a conversation starter. Jeruk bali is the star ingredient in our sensational ajb salad.
Where? Supermarkets or local pasars
6. Minyak Kayu Putih (Cajuput oil)
Why? A member of the Melaleuca family (just like Tea Tree), Cajuput essential oil is excellent for a range of uses including relief of muscle ache and pains, insect bites, as a topical anti-bacterial and as an insecticide. (Hint: To repel mosquitos, wash mosquito nets in a dilute solution of cajuput oil solution).
Where? Supermarkets or Chemists (Apotek)
7. Minyak Ekaliptus
Why? Similar to Cajuput Oil, Minyak Ekaliptus can be used for many different purposes and is an excellent antibacterial. For a natural floor cleaner, make up a diluted solution - no need to rinse the floors as it gives your house a beautiful, fresh eucalyptus smell.
Where? Supermarkets or Chemists (Apotek)
8. Cobek Ulek-Ulek
Why? The Cobek Ulek-Ulek (which translates as 'mortar grind-grind') is the traditional Indonesian mortar & pestle, which should become a staple in your Jakarta kitchen. Here in Jakarta there is no excuse to not make your own curry pastes from scratch. All of the main ingredients are readily available at your local supermarket or from your local fruit & vegetable street vendor. So step away from that jar of curry paste and make your own!
Where? Purchase a cobek ulek-ulek from your local pasar. They are extremely affordable.
9. Gula Merah
Why? Gula merah ('red sugar'), is the Indonesian name for palm sugar and comes from the sap of the sugar palm as well as the nipa palm. Unlike regular white sugar, palm sugar is unrefined and contains a variety of nutrients. It also has a lower Glycemic Index than regular sugar. Its beautiful caramel and butterscotch notes add a richness to cooking. It is excellent when making desserts or adding to sauces or simply as a refined sugar substitute. We used gulah merah in our Pineapple upside down cake.
Where? Local pasars and supermarkets
10. Bahasa Indonesia phrasebook
Photography by Nita Strudwick
(Technically, point #10 is somewhat different from the aforementioned tips. Although not actually a local secret, having access to a phrasebook and referring to it constantly will make your life in the Big Durian even more enjoyable.. which is what this post is all about!)
Why? Picking up the basics of Bahasa Indonesia is pretty simple and Indonesians are very appreciative (and forgiving) of your attempts at speaking their language. With just a handful of words and phrases, you can get your message across pretty easily. We have compiled a list of 'Useful words and phrases' that will get you started but we strongly recommend you get your hands on a phrasebook and always have it at the ready. A great idea is to buy two books and keep one in the car for when you get stuck in traffic...an inevitable reality of life in Jakarta.
PS: I also have the language app, Duolingo on my phone - you should check it out!
Where? Bookshops such as Periplus Bookstore, Books and Beyond, Aksara or Kinokuniya
Words: Jo Stevens Photography: a journey bespoke and Nita Strudwick Photography
*toko-toko: shops
