RRI.CO.ID, Baturaja - Ayam Masak Ulu, a culinary specialty of the Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU) Regency in South Sumatra, is a staple dish for local residents during the pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and for breaking the fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

“This dish is a filling meal for both the pre-dawn meal and the breaking of the fast,” said Fitri, a housewife from Baturaja in OKU Regency, South Sumatra, on Monday, February 23, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

She explained that Ayam Masak Ulu is a well-known specialty of the region and can now be found in other areas of South Sumatra. It is easy to prepare or buy from vendors and uses ingredients that are readily available and affordable.

In fact, this regional specialty is often sold at the Bedug Market during Ramadan for the pre-dawn meal and breaking the fast. "I usually make it myself for pre-dawn meals and breaking the fast with my family. We eat it with rice," she said.

Meanwhile, Susi, a food vendor at Bedug Market in Baturaja City Park, said this healthy, nutritious, traditional dish is in high demand during Ramadan.

She explained that the main ingredients for ulu-style chicken are cut chicken, pineapple, coconut milk, cheese, and sausage. The accompanying spices include candlenuts, red chili peppers, shallots, garlic, and other seasonings. To prepare the dish, sauté the ground spices, add the chicken and coconut milk, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked. Then, top with pineapple, cheese, and sausage.

"I usually sell one piece of ulu-style chicken for IDR 5,000. Thankfully, many people buy it as a side dish for sahur, the pre-dawn meal, or as a snack to break the fast," she said. ***