Lontong Balap: The Legendary Delight of Surabaya That Never Fades

TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Amid the hustle and bustle of Surabaya, there is a culinary delight that remains a favorite for many: Lontong Balap. This traditional Surabaya dish is not just a meal, but an essential part of the city’s cultural identity that continues to evolve over time.

Every bite of Lontong Balap brings back memories of the past, reminding us of the days when street vendors roamed the streets with their carts, offering a delicious and irreplaceable treat.

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Lontong Balap consists of sliced lontong (compressed rice cake) served with bean sprouts, lentho (a type of green bean fritter), and a thick, savory broth. The combination of the rich broth, the chewy texture of the lontong, and the spicy kick makes this dish irresistible and perfect for any occasion.

A Brief History of Lontong Balap

Lontong Balap first appeared in Surabaya during the colonial era, although some sources suggest its origins may date back even further. Known as a street food, Lontong Balap became popular with vendors selling it along Surabaya's streets in the 1950s.

At that time, it was an affordable dish enjoyed by all classes, from laborers to the upper class. "Lontong Balap has been around for a long time, even my grandmother, who is from Surabaya, ate it. The taste is unmatched," said Siti Nurhaliza, a Surabaya resident who has been enjoying Lontong Balap since childhood. 

Lontong Balap Becomes a Surabaya Culinary Icon

Today, Lontong Balap is not only enjoyed by Surabaya residents but has spread to other regions across Indonesia. Many restaurants and eateries claim to serve Lontong Balap, but not all can match the authentic taste found in Surabaya.

Tio Prasetyo, a Surabaya-based culinary entrepreneur who opened a Lontong Balap restaurant in Jakarta, said, “Lontong Balap in Surabaya is truly special because of its authentic taste. We have to make sure the spices and the broth stay true to the traditional recipe so it feels just like home.”

To achieve the authentic taste, making Lontong Balap requires considerable time and effort. Ingredients such as bean sprouts and lentho need to be prepared with care, while the broth is made with fresh ingredients and selected spices. All these elements combine to create a unique flavor that is difficult to replicate.

Changes and Innovations in the World of Lontong Balap

Over time, various versions of Lontong Balap have emerged, with changes in ingredients and presentation. Some vendors add toppings like shrimp crackers or even shredded chicken, giving the dish a modern twist while maintaining its traditional roots.

"Lontong Balap is traditional, but we try to innovate so that it can be enjoyed by younger generations. For example, by adding crispy shrimp crackers as a topping," said Heru Susanto, owner of "Kampung Lontong," a popular Lontong Balap stall in West Surabaya.

However, despite the changes in presentation, many food enthusiasts believe that the strength of Lontong Balap lies in its simplicity.

“To me, the best Lontong Balap is the one that remains simple, with the perfect balance of spices and a thick broth. That’s what makes it addictive,” he added.

Lontong Balap, A Dish That Brings People Together

Lontong Balap is not just a meal, but a symbol of warmth and togetherness. Every serving of Lontong Balap brings together people from all walks of life, regardless of their social status, and reminds us that delicious food can come in simple forms.

"For me, Lontong Balap is more than just food. It’s a childhood memory, and every time I eat Lontong Balap, I feel like I’m coming home," Siti added. So many memories and stories are tied to each bowl of Lontong Balap, making it timeless.

With innovations and traditions continuing to evolve, Lontong Balap remains a culinary icon of Surabaya that will never fade. While times may change, the taste and spirit of Lontong Balap will endure, uniting people through its unparalleled deliciousness. (*)

Pewarta: Nur Fitra Fitriani

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