Salak (Salacca zalacca) is a kind of short-stemmed palm tree that belongs to the Arecaceae family. It is thought to originate in the Indonesian islands of Sumatra and Java. Salak has been naturalized in other parts of Indonesia archipelago including Bali, Lombok, and Maluku. Now, it’s even found widely cultivated throughout Southeast Asia countries like Malaysia and Thailand.

The trees (shrubs) have many thorns and long pinnate leaves, around 3-7 meters long. Meanwhile, the fruits grow in clusters at the base of the palm. They are known as snakeskin fruit due to their reddish brown scaly skin. Yet, the taste is delicious — crisp, sweet and tart.

Salak is also good for you.

First, salak is said to increase memory. It contains a lot of potassium and pectin, which are said to improve the brain’s ability to conserve memory. It also contains vitamin A and beta carotene, which are good for eye health. Other good substances available in salak are tannins, saponins, and flavonoids, which are good for our digestive system.

Salak is also good for dieting, due to its carbohydrate content. And, if you want to try it differently, nowadays salak is also available in sweets and in the form of chips.

If you stay at Komaneka Resorts, salak might be one of the fruits available in your room, depending on the season.