National Dish Indonesia: Cumi-cumi Bakar (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Cumi-cumi Bakar, the smoky, char-grilled squid that captures the coastal heart of Indonesian cooking! Tender rings of squid are bathed in a punchy marinade of soy sauce, garlic, lime and chilli, then grilled until lightly charred and fragrant. It is the kind of dish that turns a simple supper into a feast, perfect for anyone who loves the bold, fresh flavours of Indonesia’s seaside kitchens.
About Cumi-cumi Bakar
Cumi-cumi Bakar, also known as grilled squid, is a delicious Indonesian dish that perfectly captures the variety and flavours of Indonesian cuisine. It is not only a showstopper on any table but also a genuine treat for the palate. The squid is grilled to lend it a smoky aroma that pairs beautifully with its tender texture. With the right marinade, every piece becomes a real culinary experience.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 squid bodies (about 250–300 g)
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon fresh coriander, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chilli flakes (to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients for Cumi-cumi Bakar, it is important to look out for the freshness of the squid. At the fishmonger, choose specimens with clear, glossy eyes and a firm texture. Soy sauce and fresh herbs are easy to find in most Asian grocery shops. Bear in mind that the quality of the ingredients has a decisive effect on the final result.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin preparing Cumi-cumi Bakar, it is important to clean the squid thoroughly. Remove the internal organs and the skin to expose the tender flesh. Once cleaned, the squid should be cut into rings so that it grills evenly. Marinate the squid for at least 30 minutes so the flavours have time to soak in properly.
Step-by-step instructions
- Clean the squid thoroughly and cut it into rings.
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Add the squid rings to the marinade and leave to steep for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to a medium heat.
- Place the marinated rings on the grill and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Drizzle with lime juice and serve warm.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Cumi-cumi Bakar can easily be made gluten-free and lactose-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce. This version means that people with intolerances can enjoy the dish too. Alternatives to traditional ingredients need not affect the flavour; in many cases the aromas can be matched perfectly well. So nothing stands in the way of a delicious experience.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans and vegetarians there is an excellent alternative to Cumi-cumi Bakar: grilled aubergine or tofu can replace the main component. Marinate the plant-based ingredients in much the same way to retain the typical flavours. Using smoked salt or a good grill helps to achieve the smoky note so often associated with grilled fish. The result is an equally tasty dish that will pique the curiosity of any food lover. The same plant-based spirit shines in dishes like Tempe Bacem.
More tips and tricks
To get the most out of grilling Cumi-cumi Bakar, make sure you preheat the grill well. It can also help to thread the squid onto skewers to make turning easier. Marinate the squid to your liking and experiment with different herbs or spices to create your own unique recipe. A little fresh lime juice can also be squeezed over the dish just before serving to add an extra burst of freshness.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Cumi-cumi Bakar can easily be adapted to personal preference. If you like it spicier, simply add more chilli flakes or experiment with a hot sauce. For a sweeter note, honey or brown sugar can be worked into the marinade. You can also vary things with different herbs, such as basil or thyme, to change the flavour. This flexibility makes the dish appealing both to fans of traditional cooking and to those who like to experiment.
Ingredient substitutions
When making Cumi-cumi Bakar, various ingredients can be used to vary the flavour. Instead of soy sauce, coconut aminos can be a mild, slightly sweet alternative. Fresh ginger can be added for a spicier taste. Chunks of pineapple in the marinade lend a sweet, fruity note that goes wonderfully with grilled squid — much like the bright flavours in Ikan Bakar. The result is a dish suited to every taste preference.
Drink pairing ideas
To round off the enjoyment of Cumi-cumi Bakar, a range of drinks can be served. A cold beer, such as an Indonesian Bintang or a light lager, pairs beautifully with the smoky aromas. For a non-alcoholic option, a fresh lime juice with mint complements the flavours nicely. A few fruity cocktails, such as a mojito or a piña colada, can also make a refreshing accompaniment that rounds off the whole experience.
Serving and presentation ideas
An attractive presentation is the key to a successful meal. Serve Cumi-cumi Bakar on a large platter with fresh herbs such as coriander or parsley. Add lime wedges and a few colourful pieces of pepper to enrich the dish visually. If you serve the squid rings on skewers, they can also double as a pretty table decoration. With a little creativity, the dish becomes a real eye-catcher at any dinner.
A bit of history
Cumi-cumi Bakar has its roots in Indonesia’s coastal cooking, where fresh fish and seafood play a central role. Indonesians are renowned for their skill at grilling and their ability to turn simple ingredients into delicious dishes. The use of spices and fresh herbs is typical of Indonesian cuisine and gives the dishes their distinctive flavour. In different regions of Indonesia the preparation and ingredients vary, which makes the dish stand out within the wonderful diversity of Indonesian cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Cumi-cumi Bakar
Cumi-cumi Bakar is a delicious and versatile dish that perfectly embodies the flavours of Indonesian cuisine. Its simple preparation makes it an ideal dish for food lovers and home cooks alike. With the right marinade and garnished with fresh ingredients, every bite becomes a treat. Give it a go and discover the culinary secrets of Indonesia!
