A perfect harmony of sweet, sour, and spicy — Rujak Buah is Indonesia’s favorite fruit salad that excites every taste bud.
What Is Rujak Buah?
Rujak Buah, or Indonesian fruit salad, is a refreshing local delicacy that perfectly blends the sweetness of tropical fruits with the fiery kick of spicy palm sugar sauce. It’s a dish that represents Indonesia’s bold and balanced flavor culture — a true reflection of its people: vibrant, passionate, and full of life.
This beloved street food is often served during hot afternoons or family gatherings. Every bite gives a burst of flavors — from the crunchiness of guava and unripe mango to the zest of tamarind and chili in the sauce. Making Rujak Buah is not only easy but also fun, especially when shared with friends or family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Fruits (adjust according to preference):
- 1 medium-sized green mango, peeled and sliced
- 1 small pineapple, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 guava, diced
- 1 small cucumber, sliced thickly
- 1 jicama (yam bean), peeled and chopped
- 1 rose apple (water apple), cut into pieces
- 1 starfruit (optional), sliced
For the Spicy Palm Sugar Sauce (Sambal Rujak):
- 150 grams palm sugar (or brown sugar), shaved
- 2 tablespoons tamarind water
- ½ teaspoon shrimp paste (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 3–5 red chilies (adjust for spiciness)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts (optional, for crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruits
Wash all fruits thoroughly, then peel and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Try to mix fruits with different textures — firm, soft, and juicy — to get that satisfying contrast in every bite. Place them all in a large mixing bowl and refrigerate for a few minutes to keep them fresh and crisp.
2. Make the Rujak Sauce (Sambal)
In a traditional stone mortar and pestle (or a food processor if you prefer), combine chilies and salt. Grind until smooth. Add shrimp paste (if using) and continue grinding until blended well.
Next, add the palm sugar and tamarind water. Mix and grind until the sauce becomes thick and glossy. Adjust the flavor — it should be a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. If you like extra crunch, add a few roasted peanuts and grind them lightly.
3. Mix and Serve
Pour the sambal rujak over the chilled fruits. Mix gently until all the fruits are evenly coated with the sauce. You can serve it immediately or let it rest for a few minutes so the flavors blend perfectly.
Traditionally, Rujak Buah is enjoyed straight from a banana leaf or a simple plate with a spoon. The combination of cool fruits and spicy, tangy sauce is both refreshing and addictive.
Tips for the Best Rujak
- Use slightly unripe fruits for a firmer texture and tangy flavor.
- Adjust chili levels according to your spice tolerance.
- For a richer flavor, roast the shrimp paste before grinding.
- Always use freshly made sauce — it tastes best when served right away.
The Unique Charm of Indonesian Rujak
Rujak Buah isn’t just food — it’s an experience. It represents Indonesia’s love for bold, contrasting flavors and the art of combining simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Each spoonful tells a story of culture and togetherness, often shared during picnics, markets, and celebrations.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a unique dessert, or simply a new taste adventure, Rujak Buah is the perfect choice. It’s fresh, fiery, and fun — a true symbol of Indonesia’s colorful culinary identity.
So, grab your fruits and pestle, and make your own Rujak Buah today — a sweet, spicy, and unforgettable bite of Indonesia!
