KOMPAS.com – Indonesian fried onions (Indonesian fried shallots) is ranked first in the list of the 100 most delicious condiments or spices in the world 2024 (100 Best Condiments in the World) according to Taste Atlas, Friday (15/11/2024).
“Fried onions are a traditional Indonesian condiment. This condiment is made by frying soaked onions, which have been finely sliced, until crispy and golden. It tastes bitter and savory,” reads the statement from the official Taste Atlas page, reported on Tuesday (26/11/2024).
Also read: 3 tips for cooking fried onions so they don’t burn, use high heat
Fried onions are usually stored in an airtight container for later use.
Usually fried onions are sprinkled on various foods, including fried rice, chicken satay, meatballs, stews and oxtail soup.
“Fried onions can be purchased at most supermarkets and grocery stores in Indonesia,” added the official statement.
There is sweet soy sauce, serundeng, and dabu-dabu
Illustration of sweet soy sauce in a small bowl. Apart from fried onions, there are various other condiments from Indonesia which are also in the top 100. These spices are sweet soy sauce in 17th place, serundeng in 41st place and dabu-dabu in 99th place.
According to the page, sweet soy sauce is an Indonesian condiment that is sometimes used as a sauce in cooking.
“This type of soy sauce is very flavorful and is sweetened with palm sugar. The color is darker than general soy sauce, the texture is thick and syrupy, and the sweet taste has a touch of molasses, caramel and butterscotch,” reads the description from the Taste Atlas page.
Not only that, sweet soy sauce is also often enriched with various spices, including cloves, cinnamon, fennel and black pepper.
Also read: Sweet Soy Sauce, a Blend of Chinese and Indonesian Culture
Illustration of tempeh serundeng. Meanwhile, serundeng is also a traditional Indonesian spice which is said to be often associated with Java.
“Serundeng is made from a combination of roasted grated coconut and various spices and seasonings, such as garlic, shallots, turmeric, tamarind, chili, coriander, galangal, bay leaves and sugar,” reads the statement from the official Taste Atlas page.
The spices and seasonings are then mashed into a paste, then fried and mixed with grated coconut. Serundeng is often added with fried peanuts so it is crunchier and richer.
Also read: 3 Ways to Make Coconut Serundeng for Various Side Dishes
Illustration of Manado’s typical dabu-dabu chili sauce. In 99th place, there is dabu-dabu from Manado, North Sulawesi.
“Dabu-dabu is made from a mixture of tomatoes, chilies, shallots, cayenne pepper, salt, sugar and lime juice. The chopped raw ingredients are mixed in a bowl, then oil is added,” reads the statement from the official Taste Atlas website.
Dabu-dabu is generally used as a condiment for grilled fish or grilled chicken, which is also served with white rice.
Also read: Recipe for Dabu-dabu Sambal without Oil, Grilled Fish Dip
