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Enjoying the near-forgotten act of communal dining
Known as “makan bedulang”, served on a dulang (large platter) is enough food for four individuals to eat together. Ruma Makan Timpo Duluk has been trying to reverse the decline in communal eating and promote this age-old tradition to the general public by offering a feast.
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Five different dishes were served on the 'dulang'. (Good Indonesian Food/File)
A
ll the time in the world would never be enough to accommodate a conversation regarding the full wealth and diversity of Indonesia’s culture and cuisine. In the same manner as many other areas in the country, the people of Belitung also practice the tradition of eating communally. Known as “makan bedulang”, it sees enough food prepared for four individuals, served on a dulang (large platter) and eaten together.
However, this custom has begun to go the way of the dodo with the passing of time – almost to the point of being forgotten completely. Ruma Makan Timpo Duluk has been trying to reverse this decline and promote this age-old tradition to the general public by offering a feast. Sporting a signature Belitung decor, the restaurant gives regular folks the opportunity to sample delicious local dishes and share them with others.
(Read also: Seven recommended family restaurants in Jakarta)
Five different dishes were served on the dulang, with Gangan Ikan (yellow soup with fish and pineapple) taking center stage. Using wrasse, Gangan Ikan features a very refreshing flavor, with a combination of intense spices and sweet-and-sour pineapple resulting in a very tantalizing broth. At first glance, you’ll notice that it shares a few similarities with Palembang’s Pindang Ikan (steamed, salted fish).
The other four dishes – Pepes Ikan-shaped Sate Ikan (fish satay), Tumis Kacang Panjang (sauteed long beans), Opor Ayam Kering (dry chicken stew), and Sayur Daun Singkong (cassava leaves) – were up to scratch as well, accompanied by a dollop of hot sambal. In my opinion, I felt that the fish satay suited my palate perfectly with its soft texture and delicious taste. Add a dab of Sambal Terasi (shrimp paste sambal) to make every spoonful an unforgettable one.
This joint also caters to those who want to makan bedulang for two. Other Belitung dishes made using recipes that have been around since 1918 are also available. Ruma Makan Timpo Duluk is the ideal place for both local and foreign tourists to get familiar with Belitung cuisine. (asw)
Explore more Indonesian cuisine here.
Jl. Lettu Mad Daud No. 22, Tanjung Pandan
T: 0791 922 3242
Open daily from 11am-10pm
Rp 120,000/US$17 per small platter
