Regional Secretary of Jakarta, Muhayat, is inspecting the “Archipelago Soto Festival” which was held in Taman Fatahilah, Jakarta on June 6th. At least 25 kinds of Soto from various regions in Indonesia are showcased in this festival. This event is part of introducing various types of typical Indonesian cuisines. Besides Soto, Jakarta city will also hold its “Archipelago Lele (Catfish) Festival,” “Crust Egg Festival,” etc.

[Muhayat, Regional Secretary of Jakarta]:
“Soto is the typical food of the Indonesian archipelago, so through this event we hope the public will come to know and understand various Soto in Indonesia. This is also a socialization and cultural introduction to the public.”

Soto is a typical Indonesian food made from broth and vegetables. Most often-used meat in Soto is beef and chicken, but in certain areas,  Soto also uses pork and mutton. Despite Soto's similarity to soup, Soto uses more varied seasoning than soup.

One kind of Soto worth tasting is Soto Sekengkel from Banyumas in West Java. Made for the first time in 1980, Soto Sekengkel which was created by a Banyumas puppeteer, has opened several branches in major cities in Indonesia.

[Tarjono Wignyopranoto, Soto Sekengkel Banyumas]:
“Sekengkel actually is the Dutch language, Sekengkel meaning meat that is attached at the foot of a cow, it's called sekengkel meat. So I gave the name Soto Sekengkel Banyumas. "

The Indonesians’ great liking for Soto Sekengkel makes good senses. Not only is it delicious, but also has many health benefits such as lowering cholesterol, improving stamina, helping digestion, and preventing stomach disorders.

[Tarjono Wignyopranoto, Soto Sekengkel Banyumas]:
“It’s Helps digestion. When you consume the Soto you will easily become sweaty. This part of Sekengkel can prevent stomach disorder. It’s because when this part is boiled, it will be like glue, so it can stick to the stomach wall. As the result, it protects you if you are late to eat.”

But the potential for these various cuisines has still not gotten serious from the Indonesian government, thus holding back international attention and acceptance.

The total number of Indonesian restaurants around the world is less than 100.

NTD, Jakarta, Indonesia.