With so many cuisines from different parts of the world, how these dishes are eaten or eating habits will likely be very different. For Indonesians, it’s customary to eat certain foods only with your hands. However, this method is less familiar to foreigners.
But living longer in Indonesia can make foreigners more familiar with eating with their hands.
As shown in @timo.bali‘s’s video, he shares his personal journey of adapting to Indonesian eating habits over time, from his first month in Bali, to six months, and finally, a year.
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At 1 month and 6 months in Bali, this foreigner was still eating with a spoon and fork.
But when it’s been 1 year in Bali, the foreigner has gotten used to eating with his hands.
Comments on the video said, “Five years in Bali must have taught you where to buy delicious and cheap food.”
Some netizen commented, “You’re good at eating with your hands, mister.”
Why do Indonesians prefer eating with their hands? This practice holds a deep cultural significance, and it’s a norm that’s been embraced by generations.
Eating with your hands may seem strange to Westerners because it is considered dirty and unhygienic. However, this culture does not apply in Indonesia, where people usually eat with their hands.
Some studies state that people in several regions of Indonesia, such as Java Island, often use their right hand to eat food. According to a study published in Journal of Ethnic Foods, this habit is considered natural and commonplace in various food stalls.
In fact, it is not only a hereditary culture, eating food will taste much more delicious if eaten directly using hands.
This practice is believed to enhance the sensory experience of eating, as the warmth and texture of the food can be better appreciated when eaten with hands.
Have you ever tried the adventure of eating Indonesian food with your hands? This eating habits is a unique experience that adds a new dimension to the taste.
