Doha: Among the diverse selection of mouth-watering delicacies at the ongoing Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) at Lusail Boulevard is Indonesia’s rich culinary delights – from satay (meat grilled on a skewer), nasi goreng (fried rice) to rendang (stew dish).
Indonesia is the guest of honour at QIFF as the Qatar-Indonesia Year of Culture began early last week. The year-long initiative under Qatar Museums is an international cultural exchange in Qatar that enhances understanding between nations and their people.
Satay
Two Qatar-based Indonesian restaurants are offering delectable authentic Indonesian foods at the festival serving guests a taste of the Southeast Asian nation. These restaurants are Tofu and Cake and Mama Rozie. From food nibbles such as siomai, to main course – nasi goreng, satay, udang bakar (shrimp bbq), and desserts, there is something for every taste bud.
Indonesia Ambassador to Qatar, H E Ridwan Hassan in an earlier event said the Year of Culture events lined up this year “will not only give conducive environments for cultural exchange at individual, social and entrepreneurial levels but also build positive sentiment among the people from both countries.”
Nasi Goreng
Lala from Australia said she hasn’t been to Indonesia before and trying the foods from Tofu and Cake and Mama Rozie makes her want to travel to Jakarta. “If you’re going to the festival, these restaurants are a must-try. Nasi Goreng for QR35 and the Mie Laksa Prawns for QR37 are both good deals!”
“The Indonesian foods here are exactly the same as in Indonesia! Feels like I’ve been transported four years back when I first visited Jakarta and Bali,” said Jack from Singapore.
More than 80 food exhibitors prepare delicious treats from Qatar and around the world for guests at the 12th QIFF. It will run daily until March 21, from 4pm to 11pm on weekdays and from 4pm to 1am on weekends.
Thousands of people have been flocking to the festival since the festival started which according to organisers are attracting over 7,000 visitors each day. Together with a wide variety of culinary options, the event also features fireworks every night at 8 pm, roving performers, a skating rink, live cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment.
Meanwhile, the Embassy of Indonesia in Qatar has announced its Indonesian Ramadhan Festival set on March 25, Saturday at the embassy. The event includes a colouring contest for ages three to seven, 'Adzan competition', for ages eight to 12, a Quiz competition for ages 10 to 15, an Indonesian Culinary Bazaar and an 'Ifthar Lecture'.
Interested Indonesians living in Qatar may register through bit.ly/festival-register to be able to join in the said contests. Meanwhile, the Ifthar on the said date is open for public.
