RRI.CO.ID, Semarang – Surakarta, or Solo, is renowned for its rich cultural sites that are well worth visiting. It is also famous for its array of must-try culinary delights, each boasting unique flavors and deep historical roots.

Cabuk rambak is a prime example. Cabuk is a spice blend made from toasted sesame seeds and coconut, mixed with chilies, kencur (aromatic ginger), and lime. The ingredients are ground into a thick paste resembling peanut sauce, delivering a savory-spicy taste with a distinctive aroma.

It is enjoyed paired with thin slices of ketupat, also known as kupat, a traditional Indonesian rice cake wrapped and cooked in plaited palm leaves. The dish is served with rambak, crackers made from rice, referred to as karak or gendar.

Historically, cabuk rambak emerged from times of economic hardship, embodying Javanese philosophy of prasaja, or simplicity. Legend has it that kupat cabuk was once served with beef rambak crackers but later switched to gendar crackers due to the high cost of beef rambak.

Kupat cabuk rambak is presented in a banana leaf pincuk and eaten directly with rambak as a spoon. Vendors typically provide a palm frond stick as an alternative utensil for the sauce.

Today, cabuk rambak remains popular among locals and visitors alike, whether to savor its legendary taste or out of curiosity. It can be found at vendors in Pasar Gede, the Manahan area, or along Jl. Slamet Riyadi's Car Free Day route. (Annaila Azzahra/Sri Wahyuni)