TIMES SINGAPORE, BANYUWANGI – Banyuwangi, a regency in East Java, Indonesia, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary offerings. Among its most cherished traditional dishes are Sego Lemeng and Kopi Uthek.

The two originating from the Osing community in Banjar Village, Glagah District. These culinary delights have recently gained prominence, captivating both local and international visitors.

Sego Lemeng: A Culinary Tradition with Historical Roots

The modest yet mouh watering look of Sego Lemeng. (Photo: Ikromil Aufa/TIMES Indonesia)

Sego Lemeng is a distinctive dish where rice is mixed with shredded chicken and either salted fish or tuna, then wrapped in banana leaves and inserted into a bamboo tube.

The bamboo is then roasted over an open flame, infusing the rice with a smoky aroma and a subtle sweetness from the banana leaves. This method of preparation not only enhances the flavor but also preserves the food, making it suitable for long journeys.

Historically, Sego Lemeng served as a vital food source for the Osing community during their guerrilla warfare against Dutch colonial forces. Its durability and ease of transport made it an ideal provision for fighters in the field.

Over time, this dish has transitioned from a wartime necessity to a beloved cultural symbol, often featured in communal feasts and local festivals.

Kopi Uthek: A Unique Coffee Experience

Complementing Sego Lemeng is Kopi Uthek, a traditional coffee preparation method unique to Banjar Village. In this practice, sugar is first chewed, and then a sip of coffee is taken, allowing the sweetness to blend with the coffee's bitterness.

This distinctive way of consuming coffee offers a sensory experience that highlights the balance between flavors.

The coffee beans used in Kopi Uthek are typically sourced from local plantations, ensuring freshness and supporting the local economy. The brewing process and the communal aspect of sharing a cup of coffee foster a sense of community and cultural identity among the Osing people.

The Festival: A Celebration of Culinary Heritage

The Sego Lemeng and Kopi Uthek Festival, held annually in Banjar Village, serves as a platform to showcase these traditional dishes to a broader audience. The festival not only celebrates the culinary heritage of the Osing community but also promotes cultural exchange and tourism.

Visitors have the opportunity to taste these unique dishes, participate in cooking demonstrations, and engage with the local community.

Events like this festival play a crucial role in preserving and promoting traditional culinary practices. They provide a space for younger generations to learn about their heritage and for outsiders to gain insight into the rich cultural tapestry of Banyuwangi.

Sego Lemeng and Kopi Uthek are more than just food and beverages; they are embodiments of the Osing community's history, resilience, and cultural pride.

Through festivals and cultural events, these traditional dishes continue to thrive, offering a taste of Banyuwangi's rich culinary heritage to the world. For those seeking an authentic and immersive cultural experience of Sego Lemeng and Kopi Uthek, a visit to Banjar Village during the festival is an opportunity not to be missed. (*)