When we talk about Lombok food, it’s usually about Ayam Taliwang or Plecing Kangkung. But beyond the spicy dishes, Lombok is home to many traditional snacks that are just as special. One of them is Jaje Tempani — a chewy, sweet treat made with simple ingredients and packed with cultural meaning.

This snack may look modest, but it carries generations of heritage and memories. Often found during family gatherings and local ceremonies, Jaje Tempani remains one of the most loved traditional snacks in Sasak culture.

What is Jaje Tempani?

Jaje Tempani (or just Tempani) is a local dry snack made from glutinous rice flour and palm sugar. It belongs to the same category as other Lombok dry snacks like Keciput, Kaliadem, or Renggi.

What makes Tempani unique among Lombok food is its simple yet flavorful composition. This traditional snack is made from glutinous rice flour (tepung ketan) and sweetened with palm sugar (gula merah), giving it a rich, caramel-like taste. Its texture is soft, chewy, and slightly sticky — unlike the crunchy feel of cookies — making it satisfying with every bite. Tempani is typically served during traditional ceremonies, weddings, or family gatherings, and it’s also a popular treat during festive seasons. Some versions even include mung beans (kacang hijau) in the dough, adding extra texture and a mild, nutty flavor.

Tempani isn’t just a snack — it’s part of Lombok’s culinary identity. In many Sasak families, it’s still made by hand, using recipes passed down through generations. Its presence at local events symbolizes togetherness, warmth, and the sweet side of tradition.

Making Tempani requires patience, especially when it’s made in bulk for a ceremony. It reflects the values of care and connection in Sasak community life.

Where to Find It

Tempani is not mass-produced like modern snacks, but you can still find it if you know where to look:

• Traditional markets in Mataram or Cakranegara
• Local snack stalls during religious or cultural events
• Souvenir centers (pusat oleh-oleh) that sell authentic Lombok food

The best version is still the homemade one — often sold by local women who learned the recipe from their mothers and grandmothers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re exploring Lombok food beyond the mainstream, don’t skip Jaje Tempani. It’s simple, sweet, and full of soul — just like Lombok itself. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee or pack it home as a souvenir, Tempani offers a small but unforgettable taste of Sasak heritage.