Sayur lodeh is one of Indonesia’s traditional dishes that never fails to please. Its creamy, savory coconut milk-based broth combined with various vegetables like chayote, long beans, eggplant, melinjo leaves, and tempeh creates a rich and comforting flavor. But even though sayur lodeh is already flavorful on its own, it becomes even better when served with the right side dishes. Choosing the right side dishes for sayur lodeh is not only a matter of taste, it’s also about creating a well-balanced meal in terms of texture, flavor, and nutrition. 

Recommended Side Dishes for Sayur Lodeh

If you’re looking for ideas, here are 10 delicious side dish recommendations to pair with sayur lodeh at home: 

1. Fried Tempeh and Tofu 

This classic combo never fails. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, fried tempeh and tofu bring a satisfying texture that perfectly complements the creamy lodeh broth. They’re also affordable, easy to make, and rich in plant-based protein. 

2. Vegetable Omelet 

An omelet filled with thinly sliced carrots, cabbage, and scallions makes a practical and nutritious side. The dense texture pairs nicely with the soft vegetables in lodeh. For a richer taste, you can mix in a bit of coconut milk or plant-based creamer into the egg mixture. 

3. Fried Salted Fish or Pindang 

Lodeh has a mild savory and slightly sweet flavor, so pairing it with salty side dishes like fried salted fish or pindang offers a tasty contrast. For a healthier version, try baking the fish with a drizzle of oil and some spices. 

4. Potato Fritters (Perkedel) 

Soft, savory, and slightly crispy on the outside, perkedel is a great match for sayur lodeh. Add minced meat or chopped celery for extra flavor. To make them creamier, mix a bit of plant-based creamer into the mashed potatoes before shaping. 

5. Fried Chicken with Galangal (Ayam Goreng Lengkuas) 

Looking for something a little more special? Try fried chicken seasoned with galangal and spices. Its rich, aromatic flavor goes wonderfully with warm rice and a bowl of lodeh. The galangal adds a deep, earthy aroma that elevates the dish. 

6. Sambal Terasi and Fresh Vegetables 

For those who love spicy food, sambal terasi is a must-have. Serve it with fresh vegetables like cucumber, cabbage, and basil leaves to add texture and freshness to your meal. The spicy sambal combined with creamy lodeh creates a bold and addictive flavor contrast. 

7. Fried Shrimp in Batter 

If you’re preparing food for kids or want something crispy, battered fried shrimp is a fun and tasty option. Crunchy outside, juicy inside, perfect to add variety to your plate. Serve it with mayo-chili sauce or sweet-and-sour sauce for extra flavor. 

8. Shredded Sweet-Savory Beef (Empal Suwir) 

Tender, shredded beef simmered in sweet and savory spices is a crowd-pleaser. It’s rich in flavor and has a soft texture that complements lodeh well. Empal can also be made ahead and reheated without losing its taste. 

9. Crispy Peanut or Anchovy Crackers (Rempeyek) 

Crackers like rempeyek add a fun crunch to your meal. The savory flavor from peanuts or anchovies pairs nicely with the mellow creaminess of lodeh. This cracker also adds crunchiness to every bite, making your delicious lodeh richer in texture and flavor.  

10. Spiced Boiled Eggs (Telur Pindang) 

These eggs are boiled with soy sauce and spices, giving them a rich flavor and a signature brown color. Slightly sweet and savory, they go great with creamy lodeh. They’re also practical and store well in the fridge. 

Read More: Coconut Milk Substitutes for Sayur Lodeh That Stay Creamy and Delicious

Make Your Sayur Lodeh and Its Side Dishes Healthier and Creamier with FiberCreme! 

Now that you’ve got plenty of inspiration for side dishes, creating a well-rounded and nutritious meal with sayur lodeh is easier than ever. From simple fried tempeh to special dishes like shredded beef, you can pick what suits your family’s taste. 

But does anyone here have any problem consuming lodeh due to its use of coconut milk? Don’t worry, because you can now replace coconut milk with FiberCreme to make your lodeh taste just as creamy and wonderful, but more suitable for your healthy diet. FiberCreme is a versatile powder ingredient that works in both food and drinks. It offers a naturally creamy, savory taste and is high in fiber, low in sugar, and contains 0mg cholesterol, making it a safe choice for the whole family. 

Let’s create a creamier, healthier sayur lodeh experience with FiberCreme! Find more recipe inspiration on Instagram @FiberCreme_TV and YouTube channel Ellenka.