Explore the various typical foods of North Sumatra, from Bika Ambon to Curry Medan, which are rich in flavor and illustrate the beauty of the culinary culture of the archipelago.
North Sumatra is not only famous for Lake Toba and its stunning natural panorama, but also for its variety of culinary specialties that reflect its traditions and cultural richness.
Culinary from North Sumatra is known for its use of unique local spices such as andaliman and asam cikala, creating a distinctive and unforgettable taste. Here are 10 typical North Sumatran foods that you should try to enjoy the authentic taste sensation of this region.
1. Bika Ambon: A Legendary Icon from Medan
Despite its name “Ambon,” Bika Ambon originates from Medan, North Sumatra. This dish is made from a mixture of eggs, sugar, coconut milk, and fermented palm water, creating a chewy texture with small cavities inside.
The seven-hour fermentation process gives a distinctive sweet taste and mouth-watering aroma. Bika Ambon is a must-have souvenir from Medan that is always sought after by tourists.
2. Mie Gomak: Batak-style Indonesian Spaghetti
Nicknamed “Batak spaghetti,” Mie Gomak uses lidi noodles or large noodles as the main ingredient. The name “gomak” is taken from the way it is served, namely by “menggomak” or holding the noodles when processing them.
These noodles are usually served with spicy coconut milk sauce rich in spices, or fried with Typical North Sumatra Food spices such as andaliman, creating a different spicy sensation.
3. Sambal Tuktuk: Typical Andaliman Sambal from Tapanuli
Sambal Tuktuk comes from Tapanuli and combines spices such as shallots, candlenuts, lime, and andaliman. This sambal is often mixed with aso-aso fish (dried fish) or fresh anchovies.
The spicy and fresh sensation of this chili sauce is perfect to accompany hot rice and side dishes such as grilled fish or grilled chicken. Andaliman gives a unique spicy bitter taste to this chili sauce.
4. Arsik: Yellow Spiced Carp Dish
Arsik is a typical Batak dish that usually uses carp. This dish has a rich savory taste thanks to spices such as andaliman, cikala acid, lemongrass, and galangal.
The slow cooking process allows the spices to penetrate the fish, creating an authentic taste that pampers the tongue. Arsik is often served at Batak traditional events, making it a symbol of traditional cuisine.
5. Dali Ni Horbo: Local Cheese from Buffalo Milk
Dali Ni Horbo is a processed buffalo milk that is cooked until it forms a lump similar to cheese. The process of making it is simple and without chemicals, using pineapple water or papaya leaves to remove the fishy smell.
This dish has a soft texture and a distinctive savory taste, often served with rice and other traditional side dishes.
6. Anyang Pakis: Savory Vegetables with Roasted Coconut

Anyang Pakis is a vegetable dish made from ferns mixed with roasted grated coconut. The addition of spices such as lemongrass, lime leaves, and shallots creates a distinctive savory taste.
In addition to ferns, other vegetables such as bean sprouts, long beans, or papaya leaves are often used to complement this dish. Anyang Pakis is a perfect accompaniment to the main meal.
7. Natinombur: Grilled Fish with Boiled Spices
Natinombur is a dish made from grilled fish drizzled with special spices. Spices such as andaliman, candlenuts, shallots, and lime are initially boiled before being sprinkled over the fish.
This dish has a spicy and fresh taste that will spoil your tongue, especially if you use tilapia or carp.
8. Manuk Napinadar: Grilled Chicken with Andaliman Spices
Manuk Napinadar is a typical Batak roast chicken dish served with roasted coconut chili sauce. Free-range chicken roasted until tender, coated with a special spicy seasoning that is very appetizing.
This dish has a strong taste and is often served at traditional events or large family celebrations.
9. Mussel Satay: A Unique Snack from Medan
Sate Kerang is a typical Medan food that uses shellfish as the main ingredient. The shellfish is skewered using skewers, then cooked with spices.
sweet and spicy flavors, mussel satay is a favorite snack that is often found in traditional markets.
10. Medan Curry: Curry Flavor with a Local Touch
Medan curry has a thick yellow sauce rich in spices, containing rice vermicelli, vegetables and meat. This dish adopts Indian influences, but with a local touch from the use of coconut milk and typical Indonesian spices.
It has a savory taste with a tempting aroma of spices, making it a favorite dish for family events or as an everyday meal.
North Sumatra is a culinary destination that is rich in flavor and full of uniqueness. From the sweetness of Bika Ambon to the spiciness of Manuk Napinadar, each dish reflects the alluring local traditions and culture.
For those of you who plan to visit North Sumatra, make sure to try these 10 Typical Medan Foods. Experience the richness of flavors that combine local ingredients and traditional heritage in every bite. Enjoy the deliciousness of the Batak land!