"PEPES" is a plural noun that refers to a type of Indonesian dish. It is derived from the Indonesian word "pepes" which means to steam or grill food in banana leaf wraps. PEPES encompasses a variety of dishes that are wrapped and cooked in banana leaves, resulting in a distinctive and aromatic flavor.
Typically, PEPES consists of a mixture of various ingredients such as fish, poultry, meat, vegetables, or tofu, seasoned with an array of traditional Indonesian spices like garlic, shallots, chili, and turmeric. These ingredients are then tightly wrapped in banana leaves, which helps in infusing the dish with a unique fragrance and imparting a subtle, earthy flavor.
The banana leaf package is traditionally secured with bamboo pins, allowing the dish to be steamed or grilled over an open fire. As the PEPES cooks, the steam generated within the package ensures that the dish remains moist and succulent, while the banana leaves impart a delicate herbal essence to the ingredients.
PEPES is a versatile dish that is deeply ingrained in Indonesian culinary traditions, originating from West Java and Sundanese cuisine. It is celebrated for its ability to preserve the natural flavors of the ingredients while creating a harmonious blend of tastes. PEPES is often served as a main course or a side dish, accompanied by steamed rice. It has gained popularity not only within Indonesian culture but internationally as well, highlighting the unique and intricate flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
