During the Dutch colonial era it was considered upscale fare served mainly to colonial officials and upper-class Betawi families — a far cry from the humble festival-fair snack it's known as today.
Glutinous rice is cooked directly in a wok with egg, then the whole disc is flipped upside down over open charcoal to sear and caramelize, before being topped with serundeng (sweet fried coconut), fried shallots, and dried shrimp. Vendors squat behind a small charcoal brazier and cast-iron pan, flipping each order by hand.
Sate (Skewered Grilled Meat)
Gado-Gado (Vegetable Salad with Peanut Sauce)