MANILA, Philippines - Mall goers recently had the unique chance to enjoy the flavors of authentic Indonesian cuisine when the Embassy of Indonesia in the Philippines held an Indonesian Food Festival at the SM Megamall Event Center.
A joint project of the Indonesian Embassy and SM Megamall, the food festival featured specialties prepared by Indonesian food companies, as well as the wives of Indonesian diplomats and nationals in Manila. The proceeds were for the benefit of the Dar Amanah Children’s Village Foundation, Inc. in Silang, Cavite and the Ursuline Sisters of Roman Union in Fairview, Quezon City.
Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines Yohanes Kristiarto Soeryo Legowo and his wife Caecilia graced the event. Also present were Indonesia Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Ade Petranto, and Minister Counselor for Social and Cultural Coordinator Toto Waspodo, as well as the Indonesian ladies who participated in the event. SM vice president for marketing and communications group Millie Dizon and SM Megamall mall manager Jocelyn Lapid welcomed them.
Indonesian cuisine is distinct due to the country’s numerous islands with regional food based upon heritage and international influences. Trade with other countries — the Middle East, India (curried meat), and China (noodles and spring rolls) — has likewise had a great influence on Indonesian cuisine.
Among the specialties showcased were favorites such as sate ayam or skewered chicken with sauce; nasi goreng or fried rice typically with an egg and prawns; and beef rendang, a spicy meat dish.
Mall goers also enjoyed gado-gado, a salad of boiled vegetables served with a peanut sauce dressing; pecel lele or fried catfish; and ayam goreng or Indonesian-style fried chicken.
Snacks and desserts like risoles, which is filled with bechamel, chicken, carrots, and celery; pisang bakar coklat keju or grilled bananas with chocolate sprinkles and melted cheese; and lontong or rice cake wrapped in a banana leaf were also favorites.
All the foods served were made by Indonesian brands such as Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP)-Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia (KBRI) Manila, Warung-Warung, Wow Krupuk, Martabak/Matahari, Sedap Mantab, Sinarmas Palm Oil, Warung Indo, Hanju Kitchen, and Lydia’s Catering.
While shoppers were savoring the food, they were entertained by cultural dances performed by Rampak Gendang, a traditional Indonesian group.