The Majapahit imperial dining experience: A culinary journey back in time

The Apurva Kempinski Bali offers a truly unique culinary experience that is not only bursting with flavors but also rich in cultural heritage. Teaming up with Javara Indonesia, this luxury resort in Bali has introduced Majapahit Imperial Dining — an extraordinary dining experience that showcases Indonesia’s incredible biodiversity, diverse flavors, and abundant resources. It’s like taking a delicious journey back in time to the lavish feasts enjoyed by the Majapahit royalty.

A feast fit for kings

Imagine stepping back in time to the era of the Majapahit Empire, a period spanning from the late 13th to the early 16th century, renowned for its lavish banquets.

As the plates arrive, you’re not just served a meal but an artful presentation that mirrors the grandeur of special occasions, ceremonies, and religious rituals from ancient times.

The cuisine of the Majapahit Empire was a harmonious blend of Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, and Arab influences, reflecting the thriving trade and cultural interchanges of the period.

But it wasn’t just about taste. Spices like cloves, nutmeg, lemongrass, galangal, coconut, and pepper were more than mere flavor enhancers; they were symbols of wealth and prosperity.

The Majapahit were also pioneers in agricultural practices, categorizing ingredients based on five distinct growing techniques: Pala Pendhem (grown underground), Pala Kesimpar (grown on vine), Pala Gumantung (hanging on trees), Palawijo (all-around harvest), and Pala Kitri (long-lived corps).

Rice became a dietary staple, while the use of spices painted a picture of the kingdom’s affluence.

The empire was also known for its innovative food preservation techniques, such as drying, salting, smoking, and fermenting.

One of the enduring legacies of these methods is ‘Ikan Asin’ or salted fish, a dish that continues to be a favorite even today.

A menu steeped in history

The set menu for the Majapahit Imperial Dining is a celebration of ancient Indonesian recipes and ingredients.

The Urap Hayuyu dish, for instance, symbolizes harmony and features unconventional grains like Jewawut (Foxtail Millet or Setaria Italica).

Rawon Lembu is enriched with Kluwek (Pangium) for its dark broth, while Botok Iwak honors the versatile coconut.

Manuk Urang Manggar adds a citrusy and spicy kick from Andaliman Pepper, and Jadah Tape pays tribute to Betawi’s tradition of street snack Tape Uli.

The star of the menu is the Melik Parijatha Rice, a unique variety grown on the slopes of Mount Ijen in Banyuwangi, East Java. This extraordinary rice was known to have been exclusively served to the kings of Majapahit.

Each dish is prepared using traditional techniques such as grilling, roasting, steaming, and frying, embodying the evolution of taste and culinary craftsmanship over centuries.

A commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage

Sustainability is the cornerstone of The Apurva Kempinski Bali.

Working alongside Javara Indonesia, the resort is dedicated to preserving and promoting Indonesia’s rich cultural and culinary heritage. Javara works across the supply chain to sustain Indonesia’s forgotten food biodiversity heritage by making it accessible to both national and international market.

All ingredients for the Majapahit Imperial Dining are carefully sourced from organic farms and skilled fishers, ensuring adherence to principles of organic cultivation and sustainable practices.

Beyond a culinary celebration

The Majapahit Imperial Dining experience is more than just a culinary celebration; it’s an odyssey that brings the Majapahit legacy to life.

The artisans from the resort’s Sustainable Wedding decoration partner, Designmill Co., have crafted magnificent decorations that reflect the Majapahit era, further enhancing the dining ambiance.

The evening is further elevated with a dramatic dance performance curated by Kitapoleng, narrating the story of Tribhuwana Tunggadewi, the Queen of Majapahit and mother of King Hayam Wuruk.

A testament to cultural legacy

Vincent Guironnet, the General Manager of The Apurva Kempinski Bali, expressed his excitement about the ‘Majapahit Imperial Dining.’

“This culinary journey is a testament to our commitment to preserving and honoring Indonesia’s cultural legacy. We invite guests to indulge in a memorable experience that combines history, flavors, and traditions while savoring the essence of Indonesia’s past elevated with unique performances,” he said.

“The Majapahit Imperial Dining is a tribute to our history and flavors passed down through generations. Through this feast, we honor our past and ensure our cultural legacy thrives,” said Helianti Hilman, the Founder of Javara Indonesia.

The Majapahit Imperial Dining experience is indeed a trip down memory lane — exploring Indonesia’s rich history, celebrating its diverse biodiversity, and appreciating the sustainable practices that have shaped its culinary narrative.

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