Jakarta (BERITAPOLITIK.ONLINE) — In a culinary tribute to Indonesia’s rich heritage, Signature Restaurant at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta has unveiled a gastronomic journey back in time, offering a unique Ramadan feast that harks back to the era of President Soekarno. With a focus on traditional flavors and rare dishes, the restaurant aims to tantalize taste buds and evoke nostalgia among diners.
The ambiance is set with the aroma of tantalizing dishes served in traditional earthenware, adding an authentic touch to the dining experience. Aptly named “Ramesan by Mustika Rasa,” the stand-alone stall within the restaurant premises proudly showcases a selection of dishes that pay homage to Indonesia’s culinary legacy.
One of the standout dishes is the “sayur bobor,” a coconut milk-based vegetable stew originating from Purwokerto, Central Java, prepared with a unique blend of spices including kencur, shallots, and salam leaves. Guests also have the opportunity to savor “kerecek,” a dish reminiscent of Gudeg but with a distinctive twist, featuring crispy beef skin served with chili slices.
For protein sources, the menu features “tahu bacem” (sweet marinated tofu), “dendeng” (spiced beef jerky), and “urip-urip ikan” (smoked fish in yellow gravy). These dishes, prepared with meticulous attention to detail, offer a delightful fusion of flavors that captivate the palate.
Chef Widodo, the mastermind behind the culinary revival, has reimagined traditional recipes while staying true to their original essence. By incorporating locally sourced ingredients and adapting to modern tastes, he aims to reintroduce forgotten delicacies to a new generation of diners.
“This special Ramadan menu showcases the culinary treasures of Indonesia, reimagined for the modern palate,” Chef Widodo explains. “It’s a testament to our commitment to preserving and celebrating our culinary heritage.”
The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the fragrant green rice, a rare delicacy once reserved for royalty during Soekarno’s era. Served with a pandan-infused aroma, this dish adds a touch of regal elegance to the dining experience.
“This is my first time experiencing Iftar at Signature Restaurant, and I must say, it’s truly a remarkable journey through Indonesia’s culinary history,” remarks one diner, Elizabeth Alicia, reflecting on the unique dining experience.
As Indonesia strives for food sovereignty, initiatives like the revival of Soekarno-era recipes play a crucial role in celebrating local ingredients and preserving cultural heritage. Through collaborative efforts between chefs, culinary experts, and government agencies, these initiatives pave the way for a sustainable future while delighting diners with a taste of Indonesia’s rich culinary tapestry.
The Ramadan feast featuring Soekarno-era recipes will be available for diners to enjoy from March 10th to April 9th, 2024, offering a unique opportunity to savor the flavors of Indonesia’s past.
