TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Tahu Sumedang is one of Indonesia's iconic traditional foods, originating from Sumedang, a regency in West Java Province. This tofu has a unique texture, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a savory taste that has made it a favorite among the locals.
According to Indonesia Kaya, Tahu Sumedang was first created by Ong Kino, a Chinese immigrant who settled in Sumedang in the early 20th century. He innovated by creating tofu with a texture and flavor distinct from the usual tofu. Ong Kino used a stone grinder to process the tofu from scratch and passed his knowledge on to his son, Boen Keng, before returning to China.
Advertisement
This secret recipe, handed down through generations, has made Tahu Sumedang a unique and iconic food. Even today, Tahu Sumedang is produced using traditional methods that preserve its authentic taste.
The Making Process
The process of making Tahu Sumedang is quite simple yet requires special skills. The main ingredients are high-quality soybeans, water, and a bit of salt. First, the soybeans are soaked until soft, then finely ground and boiled.
The resulting mixture is filtered to separate the pulp. The liquid obtained is then mixed with a natural coagulant to form tofu. Once the tofu is formed, it is cut into pieces and fried until golden brown and crispy.
The deliciousness of Tahu Sumedang lies in the combination of its crispy outer layer and its soft, savory interior. When bitten, it offers a crunchy sensation followed by a rich, savory flavor that delights the palate. This crunchy and soft delicacy is often enjoyed as a snack or as a complement to the main course. It can also be served with various sauces or sambal to enhance its taste.
Popular Across the Archipelago
The popularity of Tahu Sumedang extends beyond its place of origin. It has spread to various regions in Indonesia and even abroad. Many street vendors to upscale restaurants offer Tahu Sumedang as one of their main menu items.
With its affordable price, Tahu Sumedang has become a favorite snack among people from all walks of life. In almost every traffic intersection in Java, you can find street vendors selling this distinctive food.
"I always buy two or three packs whenever I meet a Tahu Sumedang seller at an intersection. It's delicious and makes for a great snack," said Ella, a resident of Malang.
As a part of Indonesia's culinary heritage, Tahu Sumedang has become deeply ingrained in the culture. It is not just a food item; it symbolizes creativity and innovation in traditional cuisine. Its enduring presence shows that authentic flavors always have a place in people's hearts.
With its uniqueness and deliciousness, Tahu Sumedang is a source of pride not only for the people of the Priangan Land but also for all Indonesians. This culinary delight stands as proof that traditional food possesses an enduring charm. (*)
**) Ikuti berita terbaru TIMES Indonesia di Google News klik link ini dan jangan lupa di follow.
| Editor | : Khodijah Siti |
| Publisher | : Sofyan Saqi Futaki |
