For some people from other countries, especially who never have been in Asian countries, can be quite surprised to see how Indonesian people eats.
First of all, mostly Indonesians use right hand (“muluk”) to eat food. They do that because they believe that food taste better eating with hands as well after eating usually they lick the fingers to show satisfaction of food taste. In eating places usually waiter with food brings and small bowel with water – it’s for cleaning the hands before eating and after the food. If waiter won’t bring eating tools – you can ask to do that, usually they have them as well.
Second, you can see that people as well eating with spoon and fork, but very rare with knife. Like they believe that knife is a weapon, as well they can do everything with the hand – so why use the knife? Eating with hands for Indonesians more common, like they know what they did with their hands before. Using tools means that they don’t know how and who used it before, how it was cleaned and etc.
Eating with hands
It can be quite challenge for foreigners. Truly to say, till now I don’t used to eat with hands (yet) ;).
Pinch your thumb and fingers together around the food (usually done with rice), making it into a ball and eat! Will need some practice till you will enjoy this process ;).
Eating with spoon and fork
Did you ever try to eat with hands? You enjoyed? :)
Useful? Great! :) You might also like these:
How to take a shower in Indonesia
Main gestures and poses in Indonesia
Indonesian people lifestyle
