Cassava

In 2008, Indonesia was ranked as the third largest cassava producer in the world after Brazil – where cassava originated – and Thailand, although in general cassava production is concentrated in Africa. The Portuguese brought it to the archipelago in the 16^th century, and it was grown commercially in Indonesia during the Dutch colonial period. East Java, Central Java, South Sumatra, Southeast Sulawesi, Maluku, and Yogyakarta are among the top cassava-producing provinces. As well as being a staple food in Eastern Indonesia, cassava is also widely served on dining tables and dessert platters all around the country. It is also fermented to make the sweet tapé – commonly used in refreshing iced drinks.