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3 | MUSTIKARASA As part of Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta’s 2024 movement, The Legend Lives On, comes a special culinary celebration. Inspired by the historical Mustikarasa cookbook, a renowned compilation of Indonesian recipes, this initiative celebrates Indonesia’s culinary heritage by offering a curated selection of traditional dishes. These dishes not only showcase the diverse flavours and culinary traditions found across the archipelago but also specifically highlight the rich culinary heritage of Jakarta. Through this culinary journey, guests are invited to indulge in Jakarta's vibrant flavours while contributing to preserving and promoting Indonesia's culinary heritage. Spearheaded by Indonesia’s founding father, Soekarno, the Mustikarasa historical cookbook is famed as a culinary compendium that records the vibrant recipes of Indonesia. With his deep appreciation for the nation's diversity, Soekarno played a pivotal role in the book's inception, recognising food as a unifying force that transcends boundaries and brings people together. Beyond being a mere collection of recipes, Mustikarasa celebrates Indonesia’s rich cultures and traditions, serving as a legacy passed on for the next generation to explore and savour.
Through the Mustikarasa rotation programme, which offers a bimonthly selection of traditional Indonesian dishes curated from the iconic cookbook, guests will have the opportunity to explore the historical significance of Sunda Kelapa. Once a bustling port city that served as a vital hub for global maritime trade, the historical place welcomed traders from China, Arabia, Europe, and beyond. The Mustikarasa rotation programme invites guests to experience a taste of these diverse influences, each serving as a culinary tribute to the rich mosaic of cultures that flourished in Sunda Kelapa. MUSTIKARASA | 4
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7 | MUSTIKARASA ONCE UPON A SUNDA KELAPA Once a bustling port city, Jakarta was once known as Sunda Kelapa - a vital stop for the global maritime trade. During the peak of the spice trade in the 16th century, Sunda Kelapa became a thriving centre for exchanging spices, textiles, and other goods, attracting merchants from as far as China, Arabia, and Europe. The port's importance continued growing, further expanding its commercial networks and strengthening its status as one of the region's foremost trading centres. As ships arrived with spices, textiles and other precious goods, different languages and cultures made their way to the city. Inspired by the vibrant melting pot of cultures that once thrived in Sunda Kelapa, our programme highlights Indonesian dishes with influences from China, Arab, India, and Europe―four of the prominent communities that established their own enclaves in Jakarta as they engaged in trade and commerce.
MUSTIKARASA | 8 Mooring place for sloops in Batavia, courtesy of Paulus Lauters, after Charles William Meredith van de Velde, 1843-1845 / Rijksmuseum.
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As indigenous inhabitants of the area, the Betawi people drew influence from the diverse cultures that converged in Sunda Kelapa, Betawi cuisine emerged as a unique fusion of flavours and cooking techniques. The Betawi people developed a rich culinary heritage characterised by bold and robust flavours, with dishes that reflect their cultural heritage and interactions with other communities. Some iconic Betawi dishes include nasi uduk, a fragrant coconut rice served with various savoury side dishes; soto Betawi, a hearty beef soup with aromatic spices; and kerak telor, a savoury omelette made from glutinous rice, coconut, and other ingredients. Each of the diverse cultures highlighted through our Mustikarasa movement brought inspiration through their cooking techniques, dining etiquette, and other elements, contributing to the richness of the nation’s cultural landscape. B E T A W I MUSTIKARASA | 10
11 | MUSTIKARASA Among the earliest foreign settlers in the Sunda Kelapa area were Chinese traders and merchants. These immigrants formed distinct communities around the Sunda Kelapa port, colloquially known as Chinatown or Kampung Cina. Influenced by the vibrant culinary traditions of China, Indonesian cuisine boasts a plethora of dishes that showcase the delicate balance of flavours and textures characteristic of Chinese cooking. From savoury stir-fries to comforting noodle dishes, the Chinese-inspired cuisine in Indonesia is often seen to this day. Menu highlights during this period include Sayur Babanci, Laksa Betawi, and Es Pacar Cina, offering guests a delightful culinary journey through the fusion of Betawi and Chinese flavours. Guests can enjoy the special Betawi - China menu during the months of May and June. BETAWI - CHINA
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Arab trader’s time in Sunda Kelapa has left many influences that can be seen today. Arab music, literature, shaped local arts, while their architectural legacy adorns mosques and buildings across the archipelago. Moreover, Arab culinary traditions have left a mark on Indonesian cuisine, infusing savoury dishes with fragrant spices, slow-cooked meats, and aromatic rice dishes. Menu highlights during this period include Nasi Kebuli, Nasi Mandhi, and Nasi Goreng Kambing, offering guests a delightful culinary journey through the fusion of Betawi and Arab flavours. Guests can enjoy the special Betawi - Arab menu during the month of July. BETAWI - ARAB MUSTIKARASA | 14
Indian culinary influences have also made their mark on Indonesian cuisine, with Sunda Kelapa serving as a gateway for the introduction of aromatic spices and herbs. From the bold curry flavours to the fragrant aromas of cardamom, Indian-inspired dishes in Indonesia offer a blend of sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours that delight the senses. These culinary influences from India have enriched Indonesian cuisine, contributing to its vibrant and diverse culture. Menu highlights during this period include Nasi Biryani, Kari Kambing, and Roti Canai, inviting guests to indulge in the rich and aromatic flavours of Betawi - Indian cuisine. Guests can enjoy the special Betawi-India menu during the months of September and October. BETAWI - INDIA 15 | MUSTIKARASA
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MUSTIKARASA | 18 European-inspired dishes in Indonesia offer a delightful array of flavours and textures that reflect the nation's colonial history. From a croissant's buttery richness to a custard tart's indulgent sweetness, European culinary influences add a touch of elegance and sophistication to Indonesian cuisine. Moreover, Europe's strong influence on dining etiquette and the creation of cafes during the colonial era further shaped Indonesia's culinary landscape, enriching the dining experience with a blend of tradition and innovation. Menu highlights during this period include Bitterballen, Biefstuk Lidah, and Poffertjes, offering guests the chance to taste the unique fusion of Betawi and European flavours. Guests can enjoy the special Betawi-Europe menu during the months of November and December. BETAWI - EUROPE
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As we commemorate a new milestone in the hotel’s journey, we unveil a special celebration inspired by the enduring legacy of President Soekarno and his transformative period in Ende, Flores. Throughout August, which coincides with Indonesia’s Independence Day, the hotel celebrates this inspiration with a special culinary offering that highlights the rich cultural heritage and unique flavours of Ende, Flores, as well as the broader Indonesian culinary tradition documented in the Mustikarasa historical cookbook. During his awakening in Ende, Soekarno forged a deep connection with the local community, engaging in various cultural activities and contemplating Indonesia's future. Drawing inspiration from this significant historical period, the hotel's anniversary festivities incorporate traditional foods and beverages unique to Ende. Through this culinary tribute, guests are invited to savour the region's authentic flavours while honouring Indonesia's rich cultural heritage. This special event honours Soekarno's legacy and showcases the distinct culinary delights from Flores, providing guests with a taste of the region's rich cultural heritage. HONOURING SOEKARNO’S LEGACY MUSTIKARASA | 20
HOTEL INDONESIA KEMPINSKI JAKARTA Jl. Mh Thamrin No. 1 Jakarta, 10310, Indonesia T +62 21 2358 3800 [email protected] kempinski.com/jakarta FACEBOOK Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta INSTAGRAM @hotelindonesia_kempinski LINKEDIN Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta KEMPINSKI.COM