Minahasa souvenirs offer a blend of tradition and regional uniqueness, perfect for tourists looking to bring home authentic memories.

Minahasa, a region in North Sulawesi, offers more than just stunning natural landscapes. Its local culture and traditions shine through its distinctive culinary delights and unique crafts, making them ideal souvenirs. Here are 10 must-buy souvenirs from Minahasa that capture the essence of your journey.

1. Klappertaart: Legendary and Delicious

Klappertaart, a signature Minahasa dessert with Dutch colonial influences, is made from young coconut, milk, flour, and sugar.

Its soft texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite treat. You can choose from the original version or those topped with raisins and cinnamon. Available in various sizes, klappertaart is an excellent gift for family and friends.

2. Kacang Goyang: Vibrant Traditional Snack

This colorful snack, known as kacang goyang (shaken peanuts), gets its name from the process of “shaking” peanuts with hot sand during roasting. Coated in colorful sugar, these peanuts are both crunchy and visually appealing. They are readily available at souvenir shops in Minahasa.

3. Halua Kenari: Unforgettable Sweetness

Halua kenari is a sweet treat made from candied candlenut wrapped in palm sugar. Its chewy texture and rich sweetness make Minahasa Specialties a favorite among tourists. With a long shelf life, it’s an ideal souvenir to take home.

4. Kue Lampu-Lampu: Soft and Sweet Delicacy

Kue lampu-lampu is a traditional Minahasa snack made from wheat flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar. Steamed for a soft texture and natural sweetness, this treat is especially popular during Ramadan but can be found year-round in traditional markets or souvenir shops.

5. Roa Fish Sambal: Authentic Spicy Sensation

Roa fish sambal is a Minahasa specialty made from smoked roa fish, blended with chilies and spices. Its spicy and savory taste pairs perfectly with hot rice or Manado porridge. Packaged in jars or bottles, this sambal is convenient to carry as a souvenir.

6. Kacang Kawangkoan: Crunchy and Tasty Snack

Originating from Kawangkoan, this roasted peanut snack is known for its crunchy texture and distinctive savory taste. Packed in various sizes, these peanuts are a practical snack for travel or a perfect gift for loved ones.

7. Sweet Nutmeg: Unique Spiced Candy

North Sulawesi is one of Indonesia’s top nutmeg producers, and sweet nutmeg candies offer a unique combination of sweet and slightly spicy flavors.

Made from fresh nutmeg fruits, these candies are usually packaged neatly in plastic or boxes. Besides being tasty, nutmeg candies also provide health benefits.

8. Bagea Kenari: Traditional Crunchy Cookies

Bagea kenari is a dry cookie made from sago flour and candlenuts, giving it a distinct taste. With its crunchy texture and enticing aroma, it’s a delightful daily snack or souvenir. Packaged attractively, bagea kenari is easy to carry home.

9. Minahasa Batik: Artistic Heritage in Fabric

Minahasa batik features unique motifs inspired by local traditions and culture, such as Waruga (traditional stone tombs) and regional flora and fauna. This fabric is perfect as a special gift or personal collection, offering a distinctive touch compared to batik from other regions.

10. Cakalang Fufu: Smoked Skipjack Tuna

Cakalang fufu, or smoked skipjack tuna, is one of Minahasa’s finest seafood products. The smoking process gives it a signature savory flavor.

It can be enjoyed as is or cooked into various dishes like shredded tuna. With prices starting at around IDR 55,000 per kilogram, it’s a favorite souvenir among tourists.

Minahasa offers a variety of souvenirs that reflect the richness of its culture and traditions. From culinary delights like klappertaart and roa fish sambal to crafts like Minahasa batik, each item has its unique charm.

Don’t miss the opportunity to bring Toraja Specialties and other souvenirs home as memories of your journey to North Sulawesi. Happy shopping!