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JERUK MAMAN

Fakulti Muzik dan Seni Persembahan, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris

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Introduction and history

Photo 1: Jeruk Maman

Source: Marhainis Haris Fadzilah

Jeruk Maman is a traditional dish strongly associated with the local community in the state of Perlis. This delicacy is made from the young shoots or leaves of the Maman plant, scientifically known as Cleome gynandra, a type of shrub that grows wild in sandy and open areas. The soft-textured and slightly bitter leaves are traditionally pickled and served as a refreshing appetizer.

Since ancient times, the pickling process has been used by rural communities as a natural method of food preservation. This technique allows maman leaves to be stored for longer periods, especially during the dry season or after the paddy harvesting season.

The uniqueness of Jeruk Maman lies not only in its distinct taste but also in its pickling liquid, which is often used as a dip for grilled fish and various traditional village dishes. Its tangy aroma and naturally salty flavor make it a delicious complement to everyday meals among the people of Perlis.

Functions and Roles

Jeruk Maman serves multiple important functions in the lives of traditional communities, particularly among the people of Perlis. In the past, during the communal rice harvesting season, Jeruk Maman was often prepared and brought along as a main food supply by farmers. Its ability to last for long periods without refrigeration made it convenient to carry and suitable for consumption in various situations. With just plain white rice, Jeruk Maman could provide a satisfying and refreshing meal.

In addition, Jeruk Maman is widely used as a dip to accompany various dishes, especially grilled fish. The pickling liquid, with its tangy and salty flavor, is typically mixed with lime juice, bird’s eye chilies, and a bit of tamarind sauce to create a traditional dipping sauce that is deeply loved. This flavorful combination makes Jeruk Maman not only a side dish but also a key element in enhancing the overall taste of village-style cooking.

From a health perspective, Jeruk Maman offers various benefits thanks to the natural nutrients found in the Maman leaves (Cleome gynandra) and the natural fermentation process involved in pickling. The leaves are rich in ‘flavonoids’ and ‘Phenolic Compounds’ that act as antioxidants. These compounds help fight free radicals in the body, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and slowing down the aging process of cells.

Photo 2: Maman Leaves (Cleome gynandra)

Source: Dr. Zubaidi Haji Ahmad

Moreover, the natural fiber content in maman leaves supports healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation. The leaves are also a good source of vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, and plant-based protein, all of which are essential for maintaining eye health, skin vitality, immune strength, and strong bones. Several studies have also shown that maman leaves may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making them a natural food that contributes to overall bodily well-being.

Interestingly, in some traditional practices, maman leaves are also consumed as part of postpartum nutrition for women. They are believed to help speed up internal healing, restore energy, and support the body's recovery process. The role of Jeruk Maman as a traditional yet health-beneficial food affirms that cultural dishes not only carry deep-rooted heritage value but also have the potential to support a healthy lifestyle.

Traditional Attire/ Accessories

Equipment/ Ingredients

The following are the ingredients used to prepare Jeruk Maman:

Maman leaves – The number of leaves used depends on the quantity of jeruk you wish to make.
Salt – Used for seasoning and to aid the pickling process.
Cooked rice (cooled) – Coarsely mashed or blended to assist fermentation.
Boiled water – Used to dissolve the salt and soak the maman leaves.
Bird’s eye chilies (cili padi) – Add spiciness to the Jeruk Maman.
Covered container (glass jar or plastic container) – Used to hold the ingredients during the fermentation process.

Method / Preparation Method / Presentation Method

Preparation Method for Jeruk Maman:

Prepare the maman leaves according to the desired amount. Choose young and fresh leaves for the best quality jeruk.
Wash the maman leaves by soaking and rinsing them 3–4 times to remove sand and dirt. Gently squeeze the leaves while washing to help soften them.
Drain the leaves until almost dry, then set them aside.
Prepare a saltwater solution by dissolving coarse salt into enough boiled water.
Coarsely blend about ½ cup of cooled cooked rice (or adjust as needed), and mix it into the saltwater solution.
Place the cleaned maman leaves into a clean, covered container such as a glass jar or plastic tub.
Add bird’s eye chilies (cili padi) to the container according to your preferred level of spiciness. You may leave them whole or crush them.
Pour the saltwater-rice mixture into the container until the maman leaves are fully submerged. Ensure the water level is not excessive—just enough to cover the leaves.
Allow the mixture to cool completely before sealing the container tightly with a lid.
Let the Jeruk Maman ferment for 3 to 7 days in a cool, shaded area at room temperature. Do not open the container during this period.
After the fermentation is complete, the Jeruk Maman is ready to be served. You may store it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life.
Serving suggestion: Jeruk Maman can be eaten on its own or mixed with sliced red onions, mashed belacan (shrimp paste), lime juice, and a few chilies to make a dipping sauce for grilled fish or as a side dish with plain rice.

Photo 3: Washing and Draining Maman Leaves
Source: Abd. Muhaimin

Photo 4: Mixing Maman Leaves with Cooked Rice
Source: Abd. Muhaimin

Figures and Achievements

Reference Source

Bahan Bacaan

Munch Malaysia. (2023, Mei 15). Jeruk Maman: Heritage Traditions from Malay Land. Retrieved July 4, 2025, from Munch Malaysia website: Munch Malaysia menyatakan jeruk maman dikenali sebagai pembuka selera istimewa dan air jeruknya digunakan sebagai pencicah untuk ikan bakar dan hidangan lain.

Moyo, M., Masika, P. J., Hugo, A., & Muchenje, V. (2013). Nutritional characterization of Cleome gynandra, a leafy vegetable traditionally consumed in southern Africa. Asian Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 5(1), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.3923/ajcn.2013.1.11

Ndlovu, J., & Afolayan, A. J. (2008). Nutritional analysis of the South African leafy vegetable Cleome gynandra. African Journal of Biotechnology, 7(23), 4067–4072. https://doi.org/10.5897/AJB08.249

Lim, T. K. (2014). Edible medicinal and non-medicinal plants (Vol. 7): Modified stems, roots, bulbs. Springer Science & Business Media.

Faridah-Hanum, I., Latiff, A., Hakeem, K. R., & Ozturk, M. (Eds.). (2014). Traditional Herbal Medicine for Modern Times: Biodiversity and Conservation of Medicinal and Culinary Plants. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-8570-4

Wikipedia. (2025, June 30). Cleome gynandra. Retrieved July 4, 2025, from Wikipedia: Laman ini menekankan bahawa daun tanaman tersebut tinggi dengan beta-karoten, vitamin C, zat besi dan kalsium serta digunakan sebagai jeruk tradisi di Malaysia.