East Lombok –
The culinary wealth of the archipelago is endless to explore. One of the traditional culinary heritage typical of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), is the Chicken Laos yeast Genep. This dish offers an authentic taste with a typical spice spice known as Genep yeast, the traditional basic spice of the Sasak community.
Genep yeast is a traditional spice typical of Sasak consisting of various traditional spices, such as onion, garlic, turmeric, ginger, galangal (laos), candlenut, chili, coriander, lemongrass, and shrimp paste. This spice mixture creates a strong, tasty, and fragrant taste, so that it becomes the basis of many typical Sasak dishes, including chickens Laos yeast Genep.
Similar but not the same as serundeng chicken
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At first glance, Laos chicken has a look similar to serundeng chicken. However, there are striking differences between the two. Serrundeng in serundeng chicken is made from grated coconut which is fried to dry. Whereas Laos chicken uses serundeng from grated galangal (laos) without a mixture of coconut. This galangal grater produces a crispy texture and a distinctive aroma that is the main attraction of this dish.
What makes the Laos yeast Genep chicken more special is that this dish can only be found in Batuyang Village, Pringgabaya District, East Lombok. In this village, the production of chickens Laos yeast Genep is carried out by local MSMEs. This MSME is managed by Aliya Sabila Azani. According to Aliya, the Chicken Laos yeast Genep has become a culinary icon of Batuyang Village.
“We are trying to maintain this traditional recipe to remain authentic. In addition, we also want to introduce Sasak’s culinary wealth to tourists who come to Lombok,” Aliya explained to detikBali, Sunday (1/26/2025).
 Laos Chicken Genep yeast when served in Laos Aliya Chicken, Sunday (1/26/2025). (Sanusi Ardi W/Sechubali) |
Traditional dishes that are full of cultural values
Chicken Laos yeast Genep is not just food, but also has a deep cultural value. This dish is often served in Sasak community traditional events, such as weddings, thanksgiving, or other traditional ceremonies. Its presence is a symbol of gratitude and respect for guests.
However, the challenge remains in maintaining the authenticity of this traditional recipe. “The younger generation must continue to learn and preserve this recipe, so that the chickens of Laos yeast Genep are not displaced by instant or modern food,” Aliya added.
If you visit Lombok, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the Chicken Laos yeast Genep in Batuyang Village, Pringgabaya District, East Lombok. With a rich taste and a long history, the Chicken Laos yeast Genep not only spoiled the tongue, but also brought you closer to the rich Sasak culture.
(NOR/NOR)
