TIMES JATIM, BANYUWANGI – Es potong, a legendary street snack, has become a nostalgic part of many people’s childhood memories and remains popular to this day. One of the vendors keeping this tradition alive in Banyuwangi is Sugiman (64), who has been selling es potong since 1985.

He started his business by traveling across several regions, including Tegal, Surabaya, and South Sumatra, before finally settling in Banyuwangi. With his humble cart, Sugiman continues to offer a variety of delicious, hand-made es potong.

Every day, Sugiman travels from one place to another, offering his frozen treats in flavors such as chocolate, strawberry, melon, and vanilla. The uniqueness of his es potong lies in its traditional preparation. Made from natural ingredients with no artificial colors or preservatives, Sugiman’s es potong delivers an authentic taste that is hard to find in modern ice cream.

“Es potong is still a favorite among children. Its affordable price and delicious taste make it sell out quickly,” said Sugiman on Saturday (28/9/ 2024).

The Nature of Es Potong

Es potong is a traditional Indonesian ice cream that is typically sold by street vendors. The name es potong translates to "cut ice" in English, as the ice cream is made in large blocks and then cut into smaller pieces or sticks when sold.

It is usually served on a stick, similar to a popsicle, and comes in various flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, coconut, or more local flavors like mung bean or durian.

One of the distinctive features of es potong is its traditional and simple preparation. It is often made with natural ingredients such as coconut milk, fresh fruits, or sometimes red beans, giving it a more authentic and less processed taste compared to modern ice creams.

Additionally, many vendors continue to prepare es potong using old-fashioned methods without artificial preservatives or colors.

Es potong has a nostalgic value for many Indonesians, particularly those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s, as it was a popular snack sold around schools and neighborhoods. Although newer, factory-produced ice creams are widely available now, es potong remains a beloved street food, especially in rural areas or small towns.

The Same Taste and Quality Since

Sugiman takes great care in maintaining the quality of his ingredients. According to this native of Klaten, Central Java, preserving quality is one of the keys to keeping his loyal customers coming back to find his es potong. Even with the rise of modern snacks, his ice cream recipe remains a top choice for many.

With prices starting at just Rp 3,000 per piece, Sugiman’s es potong is budget-friendly. Buyers can also purchase a whole 40 cm stick for Rp 20,000. Every day, Sugiman's cart is surrounded by eager customers, especially around schools in Banyuwangi City, where he usually sells his treats.

Many of his customers share fond memories when enjoying Sugiman’s es potong. One loyal customer, Vivin (30), who has been buying from Sugiman since her elementary school days, said, “Every time I eat this es potong, it brings back memories of my childhood. The taste has never changed; it’s always delicious.”

Loved by Many

Young people also continue to enjoy Sugiman's es potong. Although this snack is becoming rarer, they still seek him out. “I often buy this es potong with my friends. These days, it’s harder to find Mr. Sugiman since he moves around,” said Inaya, a middle school student.

Despite the competition from modern snacks, Sugiman is grateful that his legendary es potong is still loved by many. “I’m thankful that even after more than three decades of selling, people still enjoy my es potong. I hope this treat can continue to be enjoyed by future generations,” he said with a hopeful smile.

In a world of ever-changing culinary trends, the continued presence of es potong in Banyuwangi proves that classic flavors and simplicity still hold a special place in people’s hearts. Sugiman’s es potong is not just a treat—it is a cherished culinary heritage full of memories. (*)