Garuda Indonesia Colours Magazine July 2014 | Page 94

92 Explore | Flavours During Ramadan a nation celebrates devotion, humanity and kinship through the unifying force of food; the same fasting and feasting happens in every Muslim community on every island. Followers of Islam believe that fasting is a time of introspection to be grateful for what you have and to reflect on your relationship with the Almighty through learning patience, discipline and modesty. A food seller carrying snacks. Tofu – just one of the skewered snacks offered in the mosque during Ramadan. it was all systems go. Lights, cameras, action in a theatrical cooking act of Medan’s famous Aceh-style noodles, tossed in enormous woks, whipped up in a frenzy of feasting activity. I ordered mie aceh with prawns; a plate of moist noodles tossed with a handful of prawns, shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, sliced tomato, curry leaves and fried shallots, swimming in an intriguing Indian-style gravy. (The diversity of Indonesian cuisine never ceases to amaze me.) Savoury martabak, crisp-fried filled pancakes, and roti canai, Indian-style folded flatbread with curry sauce, is also famous here and prepared at the entrance of the restaurant adding to the noise, action and jostling of this culinary night show. Plate upon plate was being prepared. I imagined it was going to be a long night! Always a good thing in my book. But like most religious celebrations, it is also ultimately about the fundamental importance of family and community: strengthening the ties that bind. During Ramadan a nation celebrates devotion, humanity and kinship through the unifying force of food; the same fasting and feasting happens in every Muslim community on every island. The gathering ar ound the table, sharing a meal and enjoying the bounty of this glorious archipelago with friends, neighbours and loved ones must surely be one of the greatest investments in emotional well-being and goodwill. Noor Huda Ismail, friend and journalist, sums it up by saying, “The best thing about Ramadan is eating together with family, friends and less fortunate people; the spirit of sharing.” And the monetary benefits add to the overall abundance and joy. After all, what goes around comes around.