Cilembu sweet potatoes, also known as Honey Sweet Potatoes, are a prized specialty native to the scenic region of Cilembu village in West Java, Indonesia. Flourishing best at elevations between 800 and 1000 meters above sea level, these sweet potatoes have gained official recognition from the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture since 2001.

Today, even though it originally came from West Java, it has gained widespread popularity and is now cultivated in various regions throughout Indonesia, including North Sumatra, to meet the high demand for this delectable treat. North Sumatra, as a major province in sweet potato production, plays a crucial role in meeting both domestic and
international demand. 

With a distinctive weight ranging from 0.5 to 2 kilograms each, they’re harvested three to four months post-planting. Their raw flesh exhibits reddish or light brown tones, transforming into a delightful reddish-yellow when baked. Cilembu sweet potatoes are celebrated for their unique aroma and exquisite, naturally sweet flavor, akin to a sugary, honey-like glaze, making them a culinary treasure of Indonesia.

The promotion of Cilembu sweet potatoes began gaining momentum in Indonesia during the early 2000s. Today, hundreds of stands across West Java and other parts of Indonesia proudly offer the beloved baked Cilembu sweet potatoes to locals and visitors alike. Their popularity has transcended national boundaries, with exports reaching neighboring Southeastern Asian countries.

North Sumatra, a major province in sweet potato production, significantly contributes to Indonesia’s status as a substantial sweet potato exporter, with a total annual export of approximately 147,968 tons, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) of North Sumatra. Notably, a considerable portion of these exports is directed to countries such as Singapore and Malaysia, highlighting the global
demand for Indonesian sweet potatoes.

This exotic variety, celebrated for its exceptional flavor, aroma, and distinctive honey-like glaze, serves as a testament to the culinary and cultural richness that Indonesia has to offer. It is a true Indonesian treasure, and its unique attributes make it a culinary delight found nowhere else but in the heart of Indonesia.