Raya celebrations are just two weeks away, and the festive vibes are already in the air, don’t you think? Artists are dropping new Raya songs, kuih raya are flying off the shelves, and let’s not even get started on the fashion scene—designers have been on fire since before Ramadan began! But let’s be real, while we all love collecting duit raya and showing off our stunning baju kurung or baju melayu, what we’re really excited about is the FOOD.
So, let’s talk about the heart and soul of Raya: the iconic dishes that make this celebration so special. Here are 10 must-try dishes to make your Raya feast unforgettable!
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1. Rendang: The Undisputed King of Raya
No Raya is complete without rendang, the rich, slow-cooked curry that’s packed with flavor. Whether it’s beef or chicken, the tender meat soaked in coconut milk and spices like lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric is pure magic.It is recommended to pair it with ketupat or nasi impit for the ultimate combo.
2. Ketupat: A Symbol of Tradition
This woven palm leaf-wrapped rice cake is a Raya staple. Its mild flavor makes it the perfect partner for rich dishes like rendang and satay. Fun fact: weaving the palm leaves into that perfect diamond shape is an art passed down through generations!
3. Lemang: Smoky, Savory, and Oh-So-Good
Imagine glutinous rice cooked in bamboo over an open fire—sounds amazing, right? That’s lemang for you! Its smoky aroma and slightly charred exterior make it a must-have, especially when paired with serunding or rendang.
4. Satay: Skewered Perfection
Juicy, grilled meat skewers marinated in spices and served with creamy peanut sauce? Yes, please! Satay is a crowd-pleaser at any Raya open house, and it’s impossible to stop at just one stick.
5. Serunding: Spicy Meat Floss You’ll Love
This dry, spicy meat floss made from beef or chicken is cooked with coconut and spices until it’s bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect side dish or filling for ketupat and lemang.
6. Lontong: Comfort in Every Bite
Compressed rice cakes served with a flavorful veggie curry, tofu, and boiled eggs—lontong is the ultimate comfort food. Some people even add coconut milk for that extra lemak (creamy) goodness.
7. Kuih Raya: Sweet Treats Galore
What’s Raya without a colorful spread of kuih? From melt-in-your-mouth kuih bangkit to buttery pineapple tarts and chewy dodol, these bite-sized delights are a festive must-have. Back in the day, families would bake their own, but nowadays, it’s totally okay to grab them from your favorite bakery.
8. Ayam Masak Merah: Tangy, Sweet, and Festive
This vibrant red chicken dish cooked in a tomato-based sauce with chili, garlic, and onions is a showstopper. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and pairs perfectly with steamed rice or ketupat.
9. Nasi Impit: The Versatile Star
Translated as “compressed rice,” nasi impit is rice cooked in a cube-like mold and cut into bite-sized pieces. Some people add a hint of santan (coconut milk) for extra flavor. It’s simple but oh-so-satisfying.
10. Air Sirap Bandung: The Festive Drink
This sweet, pink drink made with rose syrup and evaporated milk is a Raya favorite. Want to level it up? Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a splash of Sprite for a fizzy twist!
Wrapping It Up: Selamat Hari Raya!
Whether you’re cooking up a storm at home or visiting open houses, these dishes are what make Raya so special. As you gather with loved ones, take a moment to savor the joy, gratitude, and love that these flavors bring.
From all of us here, Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir dan Batin! May your celebrations be filled with happiness, forgiveness, and of course, lots of delicious food.