Indonesian cuisine is a fascinating mosaic of exotic spices, aromatic herbs, and a rich blend of cultural influences. Guests can experience this culinary diversity during Indonesian Betawi Week at the Sia Asian Restaurant. The highlight of the event is a specially curated menu by Indonesian star chef Rinrin Marinka, better known as Chef Marinka. Running until 12 October, Indonesian Week is dedicated to the traditional dishes of the Betawi, the indigenous people of Jakarta.
Betawi cuisine represents the culinary heritage of Jakarta, harmoniously combining various cultural influences. This diversity is what makes Betawi dishes so distinctive and flavorful. Chef Marinka, known for her appearances as a judge on the Indonesian version of MasterChef, has crafted a special menu that reflects the characteristic flavors and traditions of this unique cuisine.
“For me, food is a combination of cookery, culture, and history,” explains Marinka, who is visiting Prague for the second time. She expresses her admiration for the city’s beauty and historic architecture.
A Flavorful Adventure: Marinka’s Selection
Asinan Betawi: The menu opens with this fresh and light dish. Asinan Betawi, a popular pickled vegetable salad found on nearly every street corner in Jakarta, is served with tofu and a sweet-and-sour peanut sauce, balancing refreshing flavors with a crunchy texture.
Soto Betawi: This creamy coconut milk-based beef soup is a beloved staple of Betawi cuisine, often served on festive occasions. With its rich, intense flavor, it is, according to Marinka, a must-try dish.
Nasi Uduk: Another traditional favorite, this fragrant sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and served with crispy chicken and peanut sauce. It exemplifies a typical Indonesian breakfast or lunch.
Bir Pletok: Rounding off the menu is this special, non-alcoholic drink. Despite its name, Bir Pletok is a spiced, sweet, and refreshing blend of ginger, secang (sappan tree bark), and other spices. It offers a pleasantly warming effect, perfect for cooler weather.
Throughout Betawi Week, all dishes are prepared by Indonesian chefs Anggan and Erwin, both from Jakarta, under the supervision of Chef Marinka. For food lovers and enthusiasts of exotic cuisine, this is a rare opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of Indonesia in the heart of Prague.
