Hari Raya Kitchen: Authentic Recipes for a Memorable Feast
Hari Raya Aidilfitri, or Eid al-Fitr, is a joyous occasion that marks the end of Ramadan, a month-long journey of fasting, self-reflection, and spiritual growth. As Muslims around the world gather to celebrate, traditional dishes play a crucial role in bringing families and communities together. These recipes, a passed down through generations, are more than just food -- they are a connection to our heritage and a way to create lasting memories with our loved ones. Beef/Chicken Rendang: A Rich and Flavorful Delight Rendang, a slow-cooked meat dish that originated in the Minangkabau region of Indonesia, has become a staple in Hari Raya celebrations across Southeast Asia. The meat, usually beef or chicken, is simmered in coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices until tender and infused with a rich, caramelized flavor.
Ondeh-Ondeh: Sweet Delights to Savor No Hari Raya celebration is complete without an array of traditional desserts and snacks. These bite- sized treats, known as Ondeh-Ondeh, are perfect for enjoying with family and friends over tea or coffee. Here is a beloved Ondeh-Ondeh recipe to try:
Ingredients: • 1 kg beef or chicken, cut into cubes • 2 cups thick coconut milk • 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised • 4 kaffir lime leaves • 2 turmeric leaves (optional) • Salt to taste
Ingredients: • 200g sweet potato, steamed and mashed • 150g glutinous rice flour • 50g tapioca flour • 1/4 tsp salt • 150ml water • 100g gula melaka (palm sugar), chopped • 100g grated coconut • 1/4 tsp salt (for coating) INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Mix mashed sweet potato, glutinous rice flour, tapioca flour, and salt until well combined. 2. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. 3. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten each ball slightly. Place a small piece of gula melaka in the center and seal the dough around it. 4. Boil the balls in water until they float to the surface. Remove and drain. 5. Roll the cooked balls in grated coconut mixed with salt. 6. Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Makes: 20-25 pieces For a healthier alternative, try substituting the gula melaka with honey or dates, and the coconut coating with finely chopped nuts or sesame seeds.
Spice Paste: • 10 shallots • 5 garlic cloves • 2 inches galangal • 2 inches ginger • 10 dried chilies, soaked and deseeded • 1 tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp turmeric powder INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Blend the spice paste ingredients until smooth.
2. In a large pot, combine the meat, spice paste, coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and turmeric leaves (if using). 3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened and turned deep brown (approximately 2-3 hours). 4. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice or ketupat. 5 Preparation time: 30 minutes. Cooking time: 2-3 hours Serves: 6-8 people For a healthier twist, try using lean cuts of meat and reducing the amount of coconut milk used. You can also substitute a portion of the coconut milk with yogurt or stock to lower the fat content without compromising on flavor.
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