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- Colorful canisters holding traditional Indonesian crackers
When it comes to food, Indonesians typically love to eat and cook and talk about food and host and share and teach and learn. Indonesia is a lovely place for foodies. Please find below food-related resources and information of potential interest…
BOOKS:
* The Jakarta Good Food Guide by Laksmi Pamuntjak is really useful for finding different kinds of food, ambiance, and price ranges.
DELICACIES:
* Durian and Mangosteens (types of fruit): http://www.proscitech.com.au/trop/d.htm
DISCOUNTS:
* Check local upscale hotels in your area if living in Jakarta for evening discounts at their bakeries. For example, in years past the pastries and breads are 50% off after 7pm at Hotel Nikko in Jakarta (except on Sundays).
ETIQUETTE:
* Indonesians usually eat with a spoon in the right hand and a fork in the left hand OR without utensils and instead use their right hand to ball up food and push the food slightly with their thumb into their mouths.
* Avoid picking up or serving food and drinks with the left hand.
* If you are a guest, wait until the host gives an indication to begin eating. If you are a host, inform the guests it is okay to start eating by saying “Selamat makan!”
* It is acceptable to bring a host a small gift such as sweets or fruit. Avoid bringing alcohol such as wine or beer unless you know the host well and that he/she drinks alcohol.
FOOD-BORNE ILLNESSES:
* Drink plenty of water and/or es kelapa muda (fresh young coconut juice) to ease sickness symptoms and keep your body hydrated.
* Avoid foods, especially meats (e.g., from lunch or snack boxes), that have been sitting out in the hot sun for many hours.
* Try to avoid dishes that have mayonnaise as an ingredient.
RECIPES & BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
* http://asiarecipe.com/indonesia.html
* http://www.baliguide.com/balifood/basic_recipes.html
* http://www.hawaii.edu/indolang/masakan.html
* Portal of many recipe links: http://www.archaeolink.com/indonesia_cooking_anthropology_o.htm (click on the Indonesia country link)
TRADITIONS:
* One Perspective of What Indonesians Eat: http://indonesia.elga.net.id/indoway/food.html
* Javanese Slametan: The Javanese often hold slametan (ceremonies) for special occasions such as anniversaries of deceased family members, going-away parties, and opening ceremonies for business or performances. Nasi kuning (yellow rice) with accompanying meats and veggies are a highlight of slametan.
