The Jakarta Post, Jakarta
Jakarta Deputy Governor Fauzi Bowo bid the highest for the largest kerak telor, a traditional Betawi omelette made of duck eggs, at the city's month-long Jakarta Fair, for the staggering price of Rp 100 million (US$11,031).
The 120-centimeter diameter omelette, around 100 times the normal size, served more than 50 people. The treats are usually sold for Rp 10,000 a portion.
Fauzi, who has been nominated for Jakarta governor in the 2007 elections, held his ground against the likes of other hungry bidders, including singer Titiek Puspa and Murdaya Po, the husband of fair coordinator, Hartati Murdaya.
Titiek was prepared to pay Rp 25 million for the omelette, while Murdaya was ready to let go Rp 35 million for the giant snack.
After tight bidding, Fauzi eventually won the traditional food by paying the Rp 100 million, which will be donated to Betawi communities.
Fauzi also joined those feasting on the dish when it was given to the fair visitors.
""Wow, it's delicious ... congratulations to the makers!"" said Fauzi, a Betawi native, to applause.
Committee members then struggled to keep many other hungry Betawi natives at bay.
""Don't fight! Don't fight! It's still hot,"" they cried.
Fauzi, in his speech to the fair, said the making of the kerak telor by four chefs showed what working together could achieve.
""If we wish to successfully produce something, we have to cooperate by getting along with each other,"" Fauzi said.
""We will all prosper if we work together.""
According to news portal detikcom, the kerak telor was made with 479 eggs, in accordance with Jakarta's 479th birthday, 20 coconuts, two kilograms of dried prawns, and seven kilograms of coconut milk, and needed 47 minutes over a coal stove.
