VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Almost all traditional snacks or cakes originating from Central Java province have a sweet taste. Apart from that, snacks from Central Java also have a simple shape but a tempting taste. In Jepara district, this sweet taste and simple form can be found in Moto Belong.

In Javanese, Moto Belong means glaring eyes. Indeed, its appearance is unique because it is shaped like an eye. It is made from cassava and other mixtures such as young coconut and banana.

Though Moto Belong means glaring eyes, it has attractive colors such as red, yellow and green which are quite tempting.

The origin of the name Moto Belong is taken from Javanese, namely moto means eyes, while belong means glare. The food is called Moto Belong because the shape of the snack resembles the shape of a bulging eye.

Apart from Moto Belong, this traditional Jepara snack is often pronounced Moto Blong. It is not served with coconut milk sauce like many other traditional snack, but is eaten with grated coconut. The ingredients for making Jepara's typical Moto Belong are cassava, salt, granulated sugar, grated young coconut, banana and vanilla as well as food coloring. Whole bananas that have been peeled are covered with smooth cassava dough that has been colored and then steamed until cooked.

The way to serve Moto Belong is quite simple, when it is cooked, just cut it into thin pieces so that the shape resembles an eye. Pieces or slices of Moto Belong are then mixed with grated coconut and added with a little sugar and salt to add a savory taste.

Moto Belong is one of Jepara's traditional snacks which is widely sold in traditional markets with prices starting from Rp. 5000.