TIMES SINGAPORE, JAKARTA – In the heart of Probolinggo, as twilight descends and the streets begin to hum with life, an unassuming pushcart stands as a beacon of tradition. Behind it, a seasoned vendor, known as Cak Sodik, continues a legacy that spans generations with his es puter.

Es puter is an ice cream made in traditional way.  Unlike commercial ice cream made with dairy, es puter is crafted using coconut milk, giving it a naturally rich and creamy texture.

It is churned manually with salt and ice, creating a denser consistency compared to regular ice cream. Often served with toppings like roasted peanuts, tapioca pearls, and fresh jackfruit, es puter offers a nostalgic taste that many Indonesians cherish.

A Business Rooted in History

Cak Sodik, born Suhadi in 1954, has spent decades crafting and selling es puter, a traditional Indonesian coconut milk ice cream. His journey began with his grandfather, who in the 1970s carried the frozen delight on bamboo poles, offering it to eager customers in front of the old Gembira Cinema.

Over time, the trade evolved, and in 1982, Cak Sodik established his fixed spot in front of the Kraksaan Tax Office, serving his customers from late afternoon until nightfall.

A Taste Preserved Through Generations

What makes Cak Sodik’s es puter special is its commitment to tradition. Unlike modern ice creams filled with artificial flavors and preservatives, his es puter is made with natural ingredients.

Freshly roasted peanuts, creamy coconut milk, chewy tapioca pearls, and sweet jackfruit combine to create a treat that is both rich in flavor and nostalgia.

An Enduring Favorite

Despite the rise of contemporary dessert trends, Cak Sodik’s es puter has remained a community favorite. Loyal customers, some of whom have been enjoying his ice cream since childhood, continue to seek out the familiar taste. 

"When I was in elementary school, I used to buy this for just 300 rupiah. Now it’s 5,000 rupiah, but the taste hasn’t changed a bit," says Aziz, one of the Cak Sodik's loyal customer.

For many, Cak Sodik’s es puter is more than just a dessert—it is a piece of history, a cherished memory, and a testament to the enduring power of tradition. As he continues to serve his customers night after night, his pushcart remains a reminder that some things are best kept simple and timeless. (*)