Who could resist the refreshing tang of sayur asem? Its clear yet flavorful broth, combined with the sourness of tamarind and the savory aroma of spices, always manages to boost your appetite. It’s no wonder this dish has become one of Indonesia’s favorite home-cooked meals, from big cities to small villages. But let’s be honest, eating sayur asem without any side dishes feels a little incomplete, doesn’t it? 

Various Side Dishes That Go Well with Sayur Asem 

To make your meal more satisfying and flavorful, here are some side dishes that go perfectly with sayur asem.

1. Salted Fish

The most classic companion to sayur asem is undoubtedly salted fish. Its salty and savory flavor pairs perfectly with the tangy freshness of the sayur asem broth. Especially when it’s fried until crispy, your rice will disappear in no time! 

You can choose from various types of salted fish such as jambal roti, peda, or anchovies. Simply fry until golden brown and serve while still warm. The combination of sayur asem and salted fish is a timeless duo that never fails.

2. Fried Tofu and Tempeh

If you’re looking for something simple yet satisfying, fried tofu and tempeh are the perfect choices. Their mild, savory flavor balances out the tanginess of sayur asem beautifully. 

Crispy on the outside but soft on the inside, tempeh fried with a bit of coriander and garlic is incredibly aromatic. Fried tofu, on the other hand, tastes even better when dipped in sambal terasi (shrimp paste chili sauce) and eaten with warm rice and sayur asem. Simple, yet so good.

3. Fried or Grilled Fish

For those who prefer high-protein dishes, fried or grilled fish is another great match for sayur asem. The savory taste of fish especially when seasoned with turmeric, garlic, and coriander, adds richness to the overall flavor of the meal. 

You can use tilapia, nile tilapia, or gourami for best results. If you prefer a smokier touch, grilled fish served with sweet soy sambal or sambal matah makes a perfect addition.

4. Sambal Terasi and Fresh Vegetables

Even though they’re not the main dish, sambal terasi and fresh vegetables (lalapan) are almost always on the table when sayur asem is served. The spicy kick and distinctive aroma of sambal terasi elevate the meal with an extra layer of bold flavor. 

Fresh veggies like cucumber, cabbage, basil, and lettuce add a refreshing crunch that balances the tangy and savory elements of the dish. For an extra zing, squeeze a bit of lime juice over the sambal before serving.

5. Fried Chicken or Turmeric Chicken

If you want a more filling and complete meal, fried chicken or turmeric-marinated chicken makes an excellent companion for sayur asem. The tender, flavorful meat adds both texture and depth to the dish. 

Crispy fried chicken skin, when paired with sambal and warm sayur asem, brings that comforting homemade taste, just like mom used to make.

6. Potato Perkedel (Indonesian Potato Patties)

Want a soft and slightly creamy side dish? Potato perkedel is a great option. Its savory, tender texture blends harmoniously with the refreshing sayur asem broth. 

For a healthier version, you can cook them with less oil or air-fry them until golden. They’ll still taste great but feel lighter on the stomach. 

Read more: Recommended Side Dishes for Sayur Lodeh to Make Your Meal Even More Delicious

Make Sayur Asem Side Dishes Creamier and Healthier with FiberCreme! 

Now you know the best side dishes for sayur asem, from crispy salted fish to flavorful fried chicken. You can mix and match according to your taste and the mood of the meal. But here’s a tip to make your dishes even more special, add a touch of creaminess with FiberCreme! 

You can use FiberCreme in side dishes like perkedel or stir-fries to make them creamier and richer without using coconut milk. This multifunctional creamer is high in fiber, low in sugar, and contains 0mg cholesterol, so you can enjoy that creamy taste worry-free. 

Let’s make your homemade meals healthier and more delicious with FiberCreme! Find more recipe ideas and cooking inspiration on Instagram @FiberCreme_TV and the Ellenka YouTube channel.