THE endless selection of traditional dishes to choose from at Ramadan bazaars is the reason for their popularity.
From hearty main courses to sweet desserts, there are many options to cater to various taste buds.
That is the experience one can expect when breaking fast at Sedap restaurant at Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotel and Residences.
One can start with the Basmati Rice with Tomato Paste – a fragrant pale reddish hued rice cooked sweet-and-sour tomato paste.
The Ikan Siakap Acar Jambu offering a burst of tropical freshness goes well with the rice.
The crispy fried fish, cooked with guava in a tangy acar sauce, is crunchy and flavoursome.
Another must-try is the Siput Sedut Masak Lemak Nangka. The creamy coconut milk gravy, infused with the sweetness of jackfruit, is dotted with sea snails which you will need to suck on to get the meat.
The Gulai Ikan Masin Terung featuring eggplant is a likeable salted fish curry that is best eaten with plain rice.
Pajeri Nenas is also a local Malay dish that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapples with aromatic spices and coconut milk, resulting in a spicy, sweet and creamy curry.
There is also the Daging Masak Bertawi with chunks of tender beef cooked with a variety of herbs and spices.
Those with a more adventurous palate might appreciate the spicier Itik Masak Asam Pedas.
The succulent yet tender duck meat in bold, flavourful asam pedas broth has a tangy, spicy appeal.
A spicy dish that is set to be a hot favourite is the Ketam Masak Lemak Cili Padi.
Here, the crabs are immersed in thick coconut milk with spicy chillies and seasoning to give it a luscious appeal.
Equally spicy is the Sambal Tumis Udang Petai, with the pungent aroma of petai expertly mixed in with the hot sambal.
Those who prefer something lighter may go for the Tulang Rusuk Kambing Percik, which offers succulent lamb ribs marinated and grilled to perfection.
They are coated generously in flavourful percik sauce, adding much dimension to the charred, smoky ribs.
Ikan Patin Masak Tempoyak, a local favourite, is known for its bold flavour.
It has a distinct richness, thanks to the fermented durian paste, which laces the gravy with a sweet and sour touch.
The Ayam Kampung Masak Kerutup is a representation of kampung-style cooking, with the chicken cooked in savoury kerutup sauce.
This dish is best eaten with fragrant Nasi Minyak Rose, which imparts a subtle floral aroma in each spoonful.
The restaurant also features several outdoor action stations where dishes are prepared upon receiving an order.
Guaranteed to steal the show is the Gulai Kawah – a hearty stew featuring a medley of meats and spices cooked in a large wok.
The Beef Broth with Oxtail, a fragrant warm and light broth, is comforting and reminiscent of homemade soup.
The Sultan Lamb Shank, featuring tender meat, is cooked in a fragrant blend of spices which is obvious in each spoonful.
There is also a wide variety of kerabu to complement the meat dishes.
Take your time at the dessert corner once you are done with the main course section as there are many delectable finds.
Those who love apam balik – a fluffy pancake filled with a satisfying mixture of crushed peanuts and sugar – can find it here.
There are also cendol and air batu campur, as well as an assortment of traditional Malay kuih.The dining experience is priced RM258 (adults) and RM129 (children). Children below six dine for free.
SEDAP, Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotel and Residences, Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 03-2170 8888, 016-290 3864/ 012-303 5958. Business hours: 6am to midnight.
This is the writer’s personal observation and not an endorsement by StarMetro.