foto: brilio.net/agustin wahyuningsih
Eating ketupat on Eid is an inseparable tradition for many families in Indonesia. However, there are often complaints about ketupat going stale quickly even though it has only been made for a day. To overcome this problem, Prof. Sugiyono from the Department of Food Science and Technology, IPB University shared some tips that you can apply so that ketupat is tastier, lasts longer, and does not go stale quickly. Let's take a look!
photo: Unsplash/Emma Miller
According to Prof. Sugiyono, the type of rice you use greatly affects the texture of the ketupat. Dry rice will produce harder ketupat, while sticky rice makes ketupat softer.
"The more rice you put into the ketupat shell, the harder the texture," he explained.
For long-lasting ketupat, choose brown rice that has been polished and free of bran. Don't forget to wash and soak the rice before putting it in the ketupat shell!
Young coconut leaves or janur are a common choice for wrapping ketupat. However, in some areas, lontar leaves or pandan leaves are also used. Prof. Sugiyono suggests that you use leaves that are still young and flexible so they don't tear easily. This is important so that the ketupat is well protected!
To make ketupat that lasts longer, you can add lime water to the rice before putting it in the ketupat shell. "Lime water makes ketupat harder and lasts longer. This is a traditional technique that has been used by many people," he said. Once cooked, immediately drain the ketupat and let it air dry so that the surface dries quickly. Do not let the ketupat cool in the boiling water, because this can make it go stale quickly!
To store ketupat so that it does not go stale quickly, the most practical way is to put it in the refrigerator. Ketupat stored in the refrigerator can last for 7-9 days and its texture will become hard. When you want to eat it, just steam it again so that the texture becomes soft. In addition, vacuum or heating techniques can also be done, although they have not been scientifically proven to be effective.
The Meaning and Philosophy of Ketupat in the Eid TraditionKetupat is not just a typical Lebaran food, but also has a deep meaning in Indonesian culture, especially in Java. The intricate woven shape of ketupat symbolizes human error, while the pure white contents after being cooked symbolize purity and an apology. In Javanese tradition, ketupat is also often associated with the term ngaku lepat which means admitting mistakes, and laku papat which describes four aspects of life that must be lived well.
Eid Tradition with Ketupat in Javanese SocietyIn many areas in Java, the tradition of eating ketupat during Lebaran is not done exactly on 1 Syawal, but a week after, which is known as Lebaran Ketupat. This tradition is often accompanied by a selamatan event and sharing ketupat with family and neighbors as a symbol of togetherness and blessings.
7 FAQs About Eid Ketupat1. Why does ketupat go stale quickly?
Ketupat can go stale quickly due to excess water content, insufficient boiling time, or improper storage.
2. How do you store ketupat so that it lasts?
Store the ketupat in a place with good air circulation or put it in the refrigerator if you want it to last longer.
3. Can ketupat be reheated?
Yes, just steam the ketupat for 10-15 minutes so that the texture remains soft and not dry.
4. Can I use soaked rice for ketupat?
Yes, but make sure the rice is drained well so it doesn't become too soft after cooking.
5. Does the type of coconut leaf affect the durability of ketupat?
Yes, fresh young coconut leaves are better because they contain natural substances that inhibit bacterial growth.
6. How long can ketupat last at room temperature?
Ketupat should be consumed within 24 hours if stored at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, store it in the refrigerator.
7. Can you make ketupat without janur?
Yes, there are alternatives such as using food-grade plastic, but the results are not as authentic as ketupat with janur.
(brl/red)
