The gluten-free Nomadic plate

Indonesia

Pagoda Beside Body Of Water

Indonesia, located between Southeast Asia and the Pacific Ocean, is an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, the most famous of which are Java, Sumatra, Bali, and Borneo. This country, a crossroads of cultures, is the fourth most populous in the world, boasting incredible ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity. Indonesia's history is marked by the influence of Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms, followed by the arrival of Islam in the 13th century and centuries of Dutch colonization. After declaring independence in 1945, Indonesia became a modern and multicultural country while preserving its ancestral traditions. This cultural diversity is evident in its festivals, religious rituals, traditional dances such as gamelan and wayang kulit (shadow puppetry), and magnificent temples.

Each island in Indonesia possesses its own distinct identity, with its own languages, customs, and way of life. The archipelago is a fascinating cultural patchwork, where modernity and tradition coexist harmoniously.

Traditional Gastronomy and Gluten-Free Options

Indonesian cuisine is rich in flavors, influenced by centuries of trade with India, China, the Middle East, and Europe. Dishes are often based on rice, meat, or fish, seasoned with local spices and coconut-based sauces. For those following a gluten-free diet, Indonesia offers many naturally suitable options thanks to the use of local products such as rice, vegetables, and seafood.

Here are some traditional gluten-free dishes:

  • Nasi goreng : An Indonesian fried rice dish, often served with vegetables, shrimp, or chicken. It is naturally gluten-free when prepared with gluten-free soy sauce.
  • Sate ayam : Grilled chicken skewers served with peanut sauce. This dish is naturally gluten-free, provided you check the soy sauce used.
  • Gado-gado : A steamed vegetable salad with peanut sauce, eggs, and tofu. A vegetarian and naturally gluten-free dish.
  • Ikan bakar : Grilled fish with herbs and spices, often served with rice and vegetables. This dish is ideal for a gluten-free diet.

These dishes allow you to discover Indonesian flavors while respecting a gluten-free diet.

Must-See Places to Visit in Indonesia

Indonesia is a destination that combines breathtaking natural landscapes with immense cultural richness. Here are some must-see sites to explore:

  • Bali : This island is famous for its beaches, Hindu temples, and terraced rice paddies. Travelers come here to relax and discover the unique Balinese culture.
  • Borobudur : Located on the island of Java, this Buddhist temple is the largest in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most visited spiritual sites in Asia.
  • Komodo : Known for its famous Komodo dragons, this island is also a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, with its colorful coral reefs.
  • Sumatra : This island offers a diversity of landscapes with jungles, volcanoes, and lakes. You will also find unique animal species there, such as the orangutan.

Each island in Indonesia reveals incredible biodiversity and cultural treasures .

Basic ingredients for cooking like in Indonesia

The basic ingredients

Rice : A staple food in Indonesian cuisine, used in dishes like nasi goreng and nasi lemak .
Coconut milk : A key ingredient in many curries and soups, coconut milk adds a creamy texture to dishes.
Peanuts : Used to prepare the famous peanut sauce served with gado-gado and satay .
Local spices : Turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, and galangal are widely used to flavor dishes.
Chili pepper : Chili peppers are an essential ingredient in Indonesian cuisine, adding heat to dishes.

Recipes

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