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Eid-al Fitr or Hari Raya Aidilfitri for Malaysians, marks the end of the holy month of Ramadhan. It is the end of fasting where Muslims fast as an act of worship to God (Allah) and a way to become more compassionate to those in need. Despite the coronavirus forcing most of us to stay at home, it is still a truly joyous celebration that we can spend with family. Not surprisingly food is a big part of the celebration and there are MUST HAVE treats to truly enjoy RAYA.
A staple for any Raya celebration, rendang is an aromatic stew that can be prepared with either beef or chicken. Cooked with coconut milk, chilies and a host of aromatic and flavourful spices, rendang goes perfectly with any rice dish of ketupat. Speaking of which…
2. Ketupat
Ketupat is an iconic Raya delicacy and is often woven into Raya decorations in homes or shopping complexes. It is steamed rice wrapped into a pouch using coconut or fan palm leaves. Once sliced open, the delicious scent of the steamed rice leaves a tantalizing taste on your tongue, urging you to dig in with a side of rendang or curry.
3. Satay
A dish that needs no introduction, satay is a delicious marinated meat that is skewered on wooden sticks and grilled over charcoal fire. The smoky and rich flavours go well with peanuts, ketupats, cucumbers and onions.
4. Lemang
If we were not under lockdown, you would see roadside stalls selling Lemang during the month of Ramadhan. Lemang is sticky rice that is encased in bamboo and cooked over an open flame. This sumptuous meal goes perfectly with rendang.
5. Pineapple Tarts
Moving on to sweet treats, pineapple tarts are a popular delicacy during raya. The sweet pineapple jam filling layered on top of a soft biscuit layer is a perfect treat when bonding with family.
6. Dodol
Dodol is a favourite among adults and children for is unique rich and sweet flavour. Often made using coconut milk, flour and gula melaka (brown sugar) that is cooked under low flame and stirred until it thickens and becomes sticky. A lovely finisher after a savoury meal.
7. Kuih Lapis
Kuih Lapis or layered cake is made by layering different cake mixtures to achieved a stripped finish. It is a very versatile (not to mention delicious) treat that can be made using various flavours and dye for a tantalizing and eye catching treat.
8. Kuih Bangkit
You would be hard pressed to not see a jar of kuih bangkit in someone’s home during Hari Raya. The cookies crumble in your mouth and its so difficult to stop at just one or two pieces. Hide them from children (and some adults) if you want them to last more than a day.
9. Teh Tarik / Teh O
To complement these delicious Raya delicacies, nothing beats a cup of tea. Either hot or cold, with milk or without, pairing these foods with a cup of tea is perfect to get a wholesome raya experience. The taste and aroma of a well made cup of tea adds another layer of flavour to any meal. Teh Tarik (Milk Tea) is often served after a hearty meal to sweethen your palate and black tea (The O) is perfect to have during meals. Basically, you can’t go wrong!
If you are in the mood for some tea check out some of our selection below, or click here to explore our wider selection of teas:
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