Gudeg Manis Recipe

Introduction to Gudeg Manis

Gudeg Manis is a traditional Javanese dish that originates from Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This sweet jackfruit stew is a beloved staple of Indonesian cuisine and is known for its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. The dish is slow-cooked with young jackfruit, coconut milk, palm sugar, and a blend of aromatic spices. Historically, Gudeg is believed to have been created during the Mataram Kingdom in the 16th century and has since become a national dish with many regional variations.

Ingredients for Gudeg Manis

• Young Jackfruit - 1.5 kg, chopped
• Coconut Milk - 500 ml
• Palm Sugar - 200 grams, grated
• Bay Leaves - 4 leaves
• Lemongrass - 2 stalks, crushed
• Shallots - 8, thinly sliced
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Coriander - 1 tablespoon, ground
• Turmeric - 1 teaspoon, ground
• Galangal - 5 cm piece, sliced
• Salt - to taste
• Water - as needed

Preparation of Gudeg Manis

1. Preparing the Young Jackfruit

Begin by thoroughly rinsing the young jackfruit to remove any packing brine if using canned. Chop the jackfruit into bite-sized pieces, ensuring the seeds are also included for added texture.

2. Aromatic Spice Paste

In a mortar and pestle or a food processor, combine shallots, garlic, coriander, and turmeric to create a fragrant spice paste. Blitz or pound until a smooth paste forms.

Cooking Gudeg Manis

1. Initial Cooking

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste, bay leaves, lemongrass, and galangal. Sauté until aromatic, usually taking about 5 minutes.

2. Adding Jackfruit and Simmering

Add the chopped young jackfruit into the pot with the spice mixture. Stir to coat the jackfruit in the spices.

Pour in the coconut milk and enough water to cover the jackfruit. Add the palm sugar and stir until dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

3. Slow Cooking

Cover the pot and allow the Gudeg to cook on low heat for approximately 4-5 hours. Check occasionally to ensure there's enough liquid, adding more water if necessary. If using a pressure cooker, adjust the cooking timer accordingly to reduce the cooking time significantly.

4. Final Seasoning

Once the jackfruit is tender and the flavors have melded, season with salt to taste.

Serving Gudeg Manis

Gudeg Manis is traditionally served with steamed rice, crispy fried chicken, hard-boiled eggs, and a side of sambal. To enjoy the full experience, pair this dish with these accompaniments, sharing with family and friends. This dish can be enjoyed both hot and cold, making it a versatile option for meals.

Enjoying Your Gudeg Manis

As you savor the sweet and aromatic flavors of Gudeg Manis, you'll be partaking in a rich culinary tradition that has been cherished for centuries. Enjoy the soft texture of the jackfruit and the creamy richness of the coconut milk. Revel in the intricate flavors created by the unique blend of spices.