Nasi Gandul Pati, a Traditional Delight in Simplicity

Pati is a regency in the northeastern part of Central Java. This regency is located on Pantura route, the Java main road on the northern coast of the island. Pati is not a big regency and relatively calm in term of tourism, but this place has simple yet delicious food called Nasi Gandul.

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This dish has become somewhat the icon of the regency, and one of the most famous exports of the region. Here is everything you need to know about Nasi Gandul Pati, a simple yet delicious dish.

Origin

The origin of Nasi Gandul is believed to be at Gajahmati Village, Pati. That is why many Nasi Gandul stalls everywhere use Gajahmati in their name, to give a sense of authenticity. The recipe of Nasi Gandul has been passed from one generation to the next for many years. Many sellers got their skill by learning from their parents. Instead of using exact formula, they rely on their ‘sense’ and feels to create a delectable dish.

The Dish

Nasi Gandul is basically rice with thick soup/broth that is almost similar to curry, gulai or semur daging. Some people think that Nasi Gandul is the combination of them all. For the side dish, Nasi Gandul is usually eaten with cow innards, beef, or even tongue. They may also add eggs and tempeh, depending on what the customer wants. You can have them all if you want to, that would cost extra, though.

Presentation

One of the most striking aspects of Nasi Gandul is the presentation. The rice is put on a banana leaf before then being poured with the delicious broth. Side dishes are then put on top of the rice, according to the customers’ order. Traditionally, they use suru to eat the dish. Suru is a banana leaf that is folded to be like a spoon. Today, though, almost all stalls using a metal spoon for practicality.

Where to enjoy Nasi Gandul

Nowadays, you can enjoy Nasi Gandul in almost all big cities in Java, and they are quite cheap, only about IDR20,000 per serving. If you want to enjoy the authentic taste, then come to Gajahmati Village, you will find lots of stalls there. However, these are some places where you can enjoy Nasi Gandul in other cities: Next

• Nasi Gandul Pak Subur – Jl. Kh Ahmad Dahlan, Karangkidul, Central Semarang, Semarang City.

• Waroeng Pati Surabaya – Jl. Mayjen HR. Muhammad No.24, Putat Gede, Suko Manunggal, Surabaya City.

• Nasi Gandul Bu Endang – Jl. Pesanggrahan No.13, RT.1/RW.3, Meruya Utara, Kembangan, West Jakarta.

• Warung Nasi Gandul Gusan – Jl. Raya Puputan II, Sumerta Kelod, East Denpasar, Denpasar City.