Lontong is a rice-based dish commonly served as a side for various Indonesian specialties, such as sate, lontong sayur, and opor ayam. However, when stored in the fridge, lontong can become hard and less enjoyable to eat. That’s why it’s important to know the best way to reheat lontong from the fridge so that it remains soft and delicious, just like freshly cooked. Here are some easy methods how to reheat lontong from the fridge easily. 

1. Reheating Lontong Using a Steamer 

Using a steamer is the best way to restore lontong’s soft texture. Follow these steps: 

1. Take the lontong out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to prevent it from being too cold. 
2. Prepare the steamer by filling a pot with enough water and bringing it to a boil. 
3. Place the lontong inside the steamer. You can use a heat-resistant container or place the lontong, still wrapped in banana leaves, directly on the steamer rack. Ensure they are not stacked to allow even heating. 
4. Steam the lontong for about 10-15 minutes. The steaming time depends on the size and quantity of the lontong. 
5. Remove and serve with your favorite dish. 

2. Reheating Lontong by Boiling 

Another effective method is briefly boiling the lontong. Here’s how: 

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil over medium heat. 
2. Add the lontong directly to the boiling water. If it is still wrapped in banana leaves, you can leave it as is. 
3. Boil the lontong for about 3-5 minutes. Avoid overboiling, as it may become too soft or mushy. 
4. Drain and serve. Once boiled, remove the lontong, let it drain, and enjoy. 

3. Reheating Lontong Using a Microwave 

If you’re looking for a quick and convenient method, a microwave is a great option. Follow these steps: 

1. Place the lontong on a microwave-safe plate. Remove it from its plastic or banana leaf wrapping and cut it into smaller pieces for even heating. 
2. Lightly moisten the lontong with a bit of water or wrap it in a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. The moisture will create steam, which helps evenly reheat the lontong. 
3. Place the lontong in a microwave-safe container and cover it with a lid or perforated plastic wrap. 
4. Heat in the microwave at medium power (500-600 watts) for 1-2 minutes. The heating time depends on the microwave power and the quantity of lontong. 
5. Check the texture. If it’s still hard, heat for another 30 seconds. 
6. Serve immediately to prevent it from drying out. 

4. Reheating Lontong Using a Dry Pan 

This method is suitable if you prefer a firmer texture with a bit of a smokey aroma. 

1. Heat a non-stick pan over low heat. 
2. Place the lontong in the pan without oil and cover it. 
3. Flip the lontong occasionally to ensure even heating. 
4. After 5-7 minutes, the lontong is ready to serve. 

Tips for Reheating Lontong from the Fridge 

Here are some tips to get the best results when reheating lontong: 

1. Make sure the lontong is not frozen before reheating. If frozen, thaw it at room temperature or in the lower section of the fridge first. 
2. Avoid overheating the lontong to prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy. 
3. Serve immediately after reheating to enjoy the best texture. 
4. If there are leftovers, store lontong in an airtight container before placing it in the fridge to prevent it from drying out. 
5. If possible, wrap lontong in banana leaves before storing it to retain its aroma and prevent it from hardening too quickly. 
6. Do not reheat lontong multiple times, as this may alter its texture and taste. 

Read More : How to Store Ketupat to Keep It from Going Bad

Serve Lontong with Creamy Sauce from FiberCreme! 

Now that you know how to reheat lontong from the fridge, why not pair it with your favorite dish? For a healthier and tastier option, try serving lontong with a creamy sauce made using FiberCreme— a healthier coconut milk substitute that is high in fiber and low in sugar. 

Want to learn how to make lontong sayur or opor ayam without coconut milk? Check out inspiring recipes on @FiberCreme_TV or the Ellenka YouTube channel! Don’t forget to share these tips with your friends and family so they can enjoy lontong without waste!