Rijsttafel

Rijsttafel is a Dutch word that translates to "rice table" in English. It is a Dutch-Indonesian elaborate meal adapted by the Dutch from the Indonesian feast called Nasi Padang. It consists of many (forty or more) small dishes served in the style of Indonesian cuisine, most of which are based on rice.

History

The Rijsttafel's origins were colonial, created by the Dutch during their colonial presence in Indonesia. The Dutch introduced the Rijsttafel to ensure that they could enjoy a wide array of dishes at a single setting. The dishes served in a Rijsttafel were not typically eaten together in Indonesia, but the Dutch colonists combined them to showcase all the different flavors and foods that the Indonesian archipelago had to offer.

Composition

A Rijsttafel involves rice in the center of the meal, accompanied by a variety of pre-cooked dishes, including meats and vegetables, served in small portions. These dishes vary but can include satays, Nasi goreng, Gado-gado, Tempeh, Babi kecap, Sambal Goreng Ati, and many others. The meal is designed to offer a wide range of flavors and sensations, from extremely spicy to mild, and from sweet to sour.

In Modern Times

Today, the Rijsttafel is a popular meal in the Netherlands and is served in many Dutch and Indonesian restaurants. It is also found in other countries such as the United States and South Africa. However, it is not common in Indonesia itself, as it is viewed as a colonial relic.

See Also

• Dutch cuisine
• Indonesian cuisine
• Nasi Padang
• Colonial Indonesia