RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Who does not love affordable snacks that are both delicious and varied? In Indonesia, many traditional snacks can easily be found in local markets and street food stalls. Indonesians call them as jajanan pasar, a term used to describe traditional snacks with unique flavors that remain popular across generations.

Traditional market snacks are usually sold at affordable prices, with many costing less than IDR10,000 or less than $1. Despite being affordable, these foods are known for their distinctive taste and are made using local ingredients such as rice flour, coconut milk, grated coconut, pandan leaves, and palm sugar. It is no surprise that jajanan pasar remains a favorite choice for breakfast or afternoon snacks.

One of the most popular traditional snacks is putu ayu, a green steamed cake with a soft texture and fragrant pandan aroma. The top is covered with grated coconut, adding a savory flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake. Its small flower-like shape also makes putu ayu visually appealing to many people.

Besides sweet snacks, Indonesians also enjoy fried snacks known as gorengan as part of their daily treats. There are many varieties, including fried bananas, vegetable fritters, stuffed tofu, and fried tempeh. Gorengan is usually served warm and has a crispy exterior with a soft interior. Many people enjoy it with bird’s eye chili or sauce as a complement.

Another filling traditional snack is lontong and arem-arem. Lontong is made from compressed rice wrapped in banana leaves, while arem-arem is usually filled with vegetables, shredded chicken, or seasoned tempeh. The aroma of banana leaves gives these foods a distinctive and appetizing flavor. Because they are quite filling, arem-arem is often chosen as a practical breakfast by Indonesians.

In addition to the snacks mentioned above, you can also find many other varieties of jajanan pasar in traditional Indonesian markets, each with its own unique taste, texture, and appearance. From colorful steamed cakes to coconut-based treats, these traditional snacks offer a wide range of flavors that reflect Indonesia’s diverse culinary heritage.

For international visitors, trying jajanan pasar can become an interesting way to experience Indonesian culture more closely. With affordable prices, these traditional snacks offer a variety of flavors, textures, and aromas that may be difficult to find elsewhere.