Perkedel Nangka Jogja - A Culinary Delight from Yogyakarta

Perkedel Nangka is a well-loved dish from the Jogja region, known for its rich culinary heritage. Nangka, or jackfruit, is the star ingredient of this recipe, prized for its versatility and ability to absorb flavors. This dish is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Traditionally, Perkedel Nangka was served during festive occasions, but its popularity has now made it a common household dish.

Ingredients

• Jackfruit - 500g
• Eggs - 2 large
• Flour - 100g
• Garlic - 3 cloves
• Shallots - 2
• Coriander - 1 tsp
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Oil - for frying
• Cilantro - for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Jackfruit

Begin by peeling and deseeding the jackfruit. Chop it into small pieces. Boil the pieces until they are tender, around 30 minutes. Drain and let them cool.

Step 2: Creating the Mixture

Mash the cooked jackfruit using a fork or a potato masher. Ensure there are no large chunks left. Finely chop the garlic and shallots, then add them to the mashed jackfruit. Add coriander, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Binding the Ingredients

Crack the eggs into a bowl, beat well, and add to the mixture. Sprinkle in the flour gradually while mixing to create a thick, cohesive batter.

Cooking Process

Step 4: Shaping the Patties

With clean hands, take a spoonful of the seasoned jackfruit mixture and shape it into small patties, about the size of your palm.

Step 5: Frying the Perkedel

Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the patties until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the patties using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serving

Arrange the Perkedel Nangka on a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot as a snack or a main dish accompanied by rice or as part of a larger spread with sambal.

Enjoying Perkedel Nangka

Perkedel Nangka is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The dish pairs wonderfully with other traditional Jogja fare, such as gudeg and sambal. It can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack with a side of sambal belacan. The crispy outer layer combined with the flavorful, soft inside makes it a crowd-pleaser.

This dish is particularly popular among vegetarians due to its hearty texture and rich flavor profile. Whether it's served at a family gathering or enjoyed as a comforting homemade meal, Perkedel Nangka brings a taste of Jogja to your table.

The preparation process requires patience, especially in boiling and mashing the jackfruit, but the end result is a delightful dish that showcases the traditional flavors of Indonesia. Set your cooking timer to ensure each step is executed perfectly, allowing you to savor the authentic taste of Yogyakarta with every bite.