What is Hari Raya without its fair share of binge eating and calorie overload? A magical melting pot of heritage and cultures enables us fellow Malaysians to bask in the best of all worlds when it comes to festive seasons. This coming Eid al-Fitr, prepare your tummies for an incoming load of glorious Raya food – think rich curry gravy and tendersome meat, you’re sure to be salivating in no time!
1. Lemang
This underrated delicacy certainly deserves waaaaay more recognition than it currently has – a fascinating combination of glutinous rice soaked in coconut milk produces a superbly flavourful aftertaste. Wrapped in banana leaves and then stuffed in hollow bamboo sticks, the hours of slow-roasting it over an open fire simply pays off when you bite into its densely-packed surface.
2. Ketupat
A symbolic representation of the Aidilfitri celebration by itself, it’s no wonder why this modest delicacy enjoy relative success even in today’s modern age. Relying on proper presentation through its intricate pattern, the complex process makes weaving the ketupat a difficult one to master. Stuffed with plain rice and then boiled, this homely delicacy makes for an excellent serving dish alongside with curries and thick gravy.
3. Rendang
To be honest, one does not have to wait until Hari Raya to enjoy this particular dish – rendang is widely available in our neighbourhood mamak and roadside stalls practically 365 days a year. But of course, what is a festive celebration without its flavourful, tendersome meat? Flaunting a thick, coconut milk-based sauce, its savoury texture perfectly complements any meat from beef, chicken and lamb to produce an utterly mouth-watering dish.
4. Tempe
Originally from Indonesia, tempe has found its way into our list of delicacies thanks to its highly addictive taste and crisp texture as a local snack. A product of fermentation, tempe holds a dense texture that binds the soybeans into a cake-like form. Being an excellent source of protein, the humble tempe is also an excellent meat substitute commonly found in many other regions.
So ladies, feel free to gorge to your heart’s desire!
5. Lontong
Put together nasi impit, vegetables, meat and what do you get?
A heavenly, soupy concoction of lontong, that is. Perfect for those big on appetites, lontong’s rich coconut milk base makes for all the right reasons to go for that second and third serving. Usually served along with peanut gravy and eggs according to personal preference, this Indonesian delicacy makes for one of the common staple cuisines for Raya house visits.
