Discover the deliciousness of various unique and authentic Gorontalo culinary specialties, from Binte Biluhuta to Ilabulo, which will make your visit even more memorable.
Gorontalo is not only captivating with its beautiful nature and rich culture, but also with its unique and mouth-watering specialties.
Each speciality of Gorontalo brings a special taste that reflects the richness of nature and tradition of this region, from corn dishes to fresh seafood. Here are 10 specialties of Gorontalo that you must try for an unforgettable culinary experience.
1. The Lady of Biluhuta
Binte biluhuta, or milu siram, is a soup dish made from boiled sweet corn, then doused with a savory sauce rich in spices and topped with shrimp or skipjack tuna. The word “binte” means corn, while “biluhuta” means doused.
The sweet taste of corn combined with the savory sauce and fish creates a fresh and delicious sensation that is suitable to be enjoyed in any atmosphere.
Not only delicious, binte biluhuta is also healthy because it is rich in protein and vitamins from its natural ingredients. Be sure to try Typical Gorontalo Food to experience the authentic flavors and richness of the region’s culinary heritage.
2. Iloni Chicken
Ayam iloni is a typical Gorontalo grilled chicken dish that is unique because of its cooking process. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of special spices and coconut milk, which makes the meat tender and the spices are perfectly absorbed before finally being grilled.
Iloni chicken is served with white rice and Gorontalo’s signature chili sauce, providing a delicious and savory taste sensation in every bite. This dish is perfect to enjoy with family or friends.
3. Nike Perkedel
Perkedel nike is a typical Gorontalo snack made from nike fish, a type of small fish similar to anchovies and found in abundance in Lake Tondano. Nike fish is mixed with spices, eggs, and flour, then fried until crispy.
Perkedel nike has a distinctive savory taste and a crunchy texture that pampers the tongue. Suitable to be enjoyed as a snack or as a side dish to accompany the main dish.
4. Tili Aya
Tili aya is a sweet snack made from eggs, brown sugar, and coconut milk, and is usually served during sahur during the month of Ramadan. This cake has a chewy texture with a distinctive sweet taste from brown sugar, giving a soft and delicious sensation on the tongue.
Tili aya is believed to be able to hold off hunger longer, making it ideal for sahur. Even though it is now rarely found, this traditional cake remains a favorite during the fasting month.
5. Pia Saronde
Pia saronde is a typical Gorontalo pia cake which is famous for its crispy texture and savory filling. The name “Saronde” is taken from a beautiful island in Gorontalo, reflecting the exoticism of the area.
This pia is made without preservatives so that the taste remains fresh and authentic. Pia saronde is a favorite souvenir choice for tourists who want to bring home the typical delights of Gorontalo.
6. Bilenthango
Bilenthango is a typical Gorontalo fish dish that is cooked in a unique way, namely half-fried and grilled on banana leaves. The fish commonly used are grouper or tilapia, which are coated with special spices before being cooked.
With its appetizing aroma and savory taste, bilenthango is perfect enjoyed with warm rice and chili sauce. This dish is a must try for seafood lovers.
7. Lalampa
Lalampa is a traditional snack that is similar to lemper, but filled with tuna fish with special spices. Sticky rice and fish filling are wrapped in banana leaves, then steamed and grilled to produce a fragrant aroma.
The texture of the sticky rice is chewy, and the tuna filling is savory and delicious. Lalampa is perfect to enjoy as a snack or stomach filler when traveling in Gorontalo.
8. Tuna Satay
fresh tuna dishes, one of which is tuna satay. Different from chicken or meat satay, this satay uses fresh tuna pieces that are seasoned and then grilled.
Tuna satay has a soft texture and rich flavor. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner when you are in Gorontalo, offering a different deliciousness from the usual satay.
9. Brenebon
Brenebon is a typical Gorontalo iced drink made from red beans, pudding, and condensed milk, served with finely shaved ice. This drink is very refreshing and popular in Gorontalo, especially on hot days.
The sweetness of milk and the softness of red beans create a refreshing and filling combination. Brenebon is the perfect choice to quench your thirst while enjoying the tropical atmosphere of Gorontalo.
10. Ilabulo
Ilabulo is a typical dish made from a mixture of sago, chicken, liver, and eggs, seasoned with typical Gorontalo spices. This dough is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, then baked until cooked.
It has a chewy texture with a delicious savory taste, making it a filling snack. Ilabulo is best eaten while still warm and is a must-try culinary choice for those of you looking for an authentic culinary experience in Gorontalo.
With a variety of delicious and authentic culinary choices, Gorontalo is a heaven for lovers of regional specialties.
From the fresh Binte Biluhuta, the richly flavored Ayam Iloni, to the refreshing Brenebon drink, every typical Gorontalo dish has a unique taste and story that you shouldn’t miss.
Make sure you try these specialties, including Typical Central Sulawesi Food, when visiting Gorontalo and enjoy the rich and diverse culinary delights of the archipelago.
