For a city born and bred gal like me whose roots are firmly entrenched in KL, I can only imagine the convivial atmosphere of a Malay kampong especially during the breaking of fast and festive Hari Raya celebrations.
That's why I never passed up the invitation to buka puasa at The JW Marriott
Kuala Lumpur. Set-up to mimic the vibrant atmosphere of a typical Malay kampung, the hotel's chefs work hard to replicate 108 of nenek’s (granny's) traditional recipes and some 30-odd modern
interpretations
for its annual buka puasa buffet throughout the holy
month of Ramadhan.
After scouring the colourful collection of gerai – rustic wooden stalls where a wide assortment of goodies are laid out, our top 5 picks comprise:
1. Ikan Panggang |
Grilled fish fans will be reeled in by the freshly barbecued selection of local fishes such as cencaru and kembung marinated in piquant spice paste. Enjoy these delicious offerings with dips of sambal belacan, black soya sauce with chilli or tamarind juice with sliced shallots and chilli.
In addition, there's a whole lamb roasted on a charcoal spit plus tandoori meats and seafood to please both young and old alike.
In addition, there's a whole lamb roasted on a charcoal spit plus tandoori meats and seafood to please both young and old alike.
2. Satay |
3. Daging Salai Masak Lemak dengan Bachang |
4. Sambal Udang
dengan Petai
|
This is one dish that makes its presence 'smelt' due to the inclusion of pungent petai (stink beans). Their strong scent and unique flavour add a unique dimension to the fiery red, spicy prawn sambal, making it thoroughly enjoyable for those who relish this rustic delicacy.
5. Tepung Pelita |
Tempe Goreng Bercili |
Sweet endings range from freshly sliced fruits and bubur (legume porridges) to ais kacang and customary treats such as kuih bahulu (dainty sponge egg cakes) and wajik (steamed glutinous rice cakes with palm sugar).
Sticky but yummy Wajik |
The JW Marriott Ramadhan buffet is priced at RM75++ at the Poolside and RM65++ at the 4th floor Starhill Conference Centre. For reservations, please
call
+603-2719 8666.