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Bubur Manado

February 12, 2025

Bubur Manado is a hearty rice porridge cooked with sweet potato, pumpkin, corn, and leafy greens. Naturally vegetarian, it's known for being nutritious, simple, and affordable—a staple breakfast or lunch in Manado.

Indonesian Bubur Manado

Information

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 5 Servings

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity Price
Main Ingredients:
White rice 200g (1 cup) $0.30
Sweet potato (orange/fresh) 200g $0.40
Pumpkin (or squash) 200g $0.40
Corn (fresh or canned) 1 cob or ½ cup canned $0.25
Cassava leaves (optional) 1 small bunch $0.50
Spinach or kale 1 small bunch $0.40
Lemongrass (smashed) 1 stalk $0.15
Bay leaf 1 $0.05
Salt To taste $0.02
Water 1.5–2 liters Free
Optional Side Garnishes:
Fried shallots 2 tbsp $0.25
Sambal (homemade or bottled) 2 tbsp $0.25
Tofu or salted fish (ikan asin) Small portion $0.50

Directions

  1. Step 1

    Prepare the Base: Rinse the rice and add to a large pot with 1.5–2 liters of water. Add smashed lemongrass and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

  2. Step 2

    Add Starchy Veggies: Dice sweet potato and pumpkin. Add them to the boiling rice once it starts softening (after ~15 minutes). Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

  3. Step 3

    Add Corn and Greens: Add corn kernels (cut from cob or canned). Once the porridge thickens (~30–35 min), add spinach and cassava leaves. Cook for another 10 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

  4. Step 4

    Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Serve hot in bowls. Garnish with fried shallots, sambal, or small pieces of fried tofu or salted fish for protein.

📌 Final Notes:

  • Total Estimated Cost: $3.47
  • Cost Per Serving (5 servings): ~$0.69
  • Use seasonal/local greens like kangkung or daun pepaya for cheaper alternatives.
  • Skip garnishes for a more minimal version—core porridge is very filling.
  • Substitute pumpkin with carrot or more sweet potato if cheaper.