Exploring arid lands: Four seasons Jakarta’s culinary journey continues

Friday, January 19, 2024

Embarking on its culinary journey through the Indonesian Archipelago, the Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta presents an enticing series of gastronomic events. The current expedition explores the unique flavors of North Sulawesi and East Nusa Tenggara, regions distinguished by their comparatively arid landscapes that impart an exclusive twist to Indonesian cuisine.

Crafted in collaboration by Celebrity Chef Bara Pattiradjawane and Chef Asep Hamdani of Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta, the regionally inspired menu features artisanal, sustainably sourced ingredients from Javara Indonesia. Challenging common misconceptions, the initiative underscores that arid lands, often underestimated for their perceived scarcity of nutritious resources, actually conceal a wealth of natural, nutrient-rich ingredients. Contrary to prevailing beliefs, the drylands of Indonesia possess unique characteristics and a diverse array of natural and nutritious elements.

Running from January 15 to March 31, 2024, guests are invited to savor the distinctive flavors of Indonesia’s dry-land areas. Gorontalo in North Sulawesi, known for its iconic local spices, and East Nusa Tenggara, abundant in beef with lighter seasonings, take center stage. Culinary traditions from both provinces are showcased through a curated set menu or à la carte options.

Highlights include the Binte Biluhata soup with sweet corn, river prawns, and Kopyor coconut, and the robust Sei Sapi, featuring smoked wagyu rump roast beef with Sambal Lu’at from East Nusa Tenggara. The meal concludes with Kue Talam, a sweet composition of steamed cassava, Flores cashews, coconut cream, and sorghum sugar. An optional wine pairing offers handpicked selections from France and Italy, enhancing the flavors of each course.

The Palm Court, the hotel’s luxurious all-day restaurant, hosts this delectable regional feast with both indoor and outdoor seating options. Led by Chef Asep Hamdani’s expertise, the culinary team presents refined yet authentic Indonesian specialties.

Drawing inspiration from Indonesia’s incredible food biodiversity, the Journey Through the Indonesian Archipelago provides an edible exploration of the country’s living culinary heritage. Celebrating the diverse ecosystems and ingredients across the archipelago, the series unfolds throughout the year, showcasing various landscapes, from forest and wetland to highland.

Chef Bara Pattiradjawane, renowned for his television cooking show from 2005 to 2015, spearheads the mission to revive Indonesia’s food biodiversity heritage. Born in Jakarta and with a culinary journey spanning Europe and Indonesia, Chef Bara aims to showcase the culinary wealth of Indonesia through unique regional dishes with rare ingredients not commonly found in restaurants.

Throughout the year, epicurean events will spotlight different Indonesian landscapes, emphasizing the vibrant tapestry of food experiences woven from the local wisdom and culinary traditions of over 500 ethnic groups. Chef Bara’s commitment extends beyond the hotel, as he works to revive Indonesia’s food biodiversity heritage through a global company offering natural, organic, and artisanal food products. Operating in over 35 countries, the company collaborates with farmers, foragers, and food artisans, supporting natural cultivation techniques and promoting healthy, sustainable consumption.

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