What are some lesser-known culinary gems from Southeast Asia that offer a diverse range of flavors?

Datu Ulap

In the Philippines, the southern region of Mindanao is a culinary gem even many Filipinos outside of the southern region do not know about.

• The region of Bangsamoro in particular, is known for its use of chilis, palapa, turmeric, burnt coconut, malagkit, and curry dishes such as rendang and kulma.

• Zamboanga is known for local specialties such as spanner crab and satti, a local version of satay.

• The Tausug are known for their unique dishes such as tiyula itum and piyanggang.

• Dulang are traditional feasts of the Maranao people, prepared for guests during celebrations.

• In recent years, vloggers have highlighted the local cuisines of Bangsamoro and even visited Quiapo Muslim Town in Manila where many Maranao, Maguindanao, and Tausug residents live. 

Indonesia has some regional cuisines not well known by the rest of the world outside of Maritime Southeast Asia. Padang cuisine comes from the Minangkabau people in West Sumatra.

• Padang cuisine, or Masakan Padang, is well-known around Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, and is known for its use of coconut milk and chilis, and its halal-friendly nature reflects the Islamic heritage of the Minangkabau people.

• Nasi Kapau is one example of the variety Padang cuisine offers and is a common item in Minangkabau restaurants. Steamed rice comes with various choices of dishes.

• Nasi Padang is similar to Nasi Kapau, though Nasi Padang originates from Padang while Nasi Kapau originates from Nagari Kapau, Bukittinggi. Nasi Padang is served with a variety of small plates.