Rijsttafel at Indrapura, Amsterdam
Meal of the Week
Thank your culinary stars for the Indonesians. In their 8,840 named islands and 1,500 ethnic groups, they’ve nurtured one of the world’s most inventive and mouthwatering cuisines. Rijsttafel (or Rice Table) came about in Dutch colonial times as a showcase for this spectacular diversity—bowls of various rices surrounded by up to forty distinct dishes from Java, Sumatra, Bali, and a host of exotic island chains.
Satay (skewers), Semur daging and Rendang (beef stews in coconut and chilis), Karedok (veggie salad), Opor ayam (chicken coconut curry), Nasi goreng (fried rice balls), Bebek (duck a gazillion ways). And so forth.
Sambals (sauces), Acar (pickles), and Krupuk (Asian crackers) on the side.
Papa’s old favorite, Telur balado (boiled, sometimes deviled, eggs in an explosion of chilis).
Cuisines, like anything else, go in and out of fashion. Fifty years ago, there were Rijsttafel houses all over the Netherlands. Ten years ago, we couldn't find a one. Today, they're coming back, at least in Amsterdam, so ask around and enjoy!
Read more than you'll ever need to know about Rijsttafel at Wikipedia.
And let us know what you’re thinking. We’ll respond to any and all comments.
