0 Yellow rice, from ceremony to daily treat

In Bali and Java, the yellow rice, conical-shaped steamed rice colored with turmeric and served with an assortment of meat-based, egg-based and vegetable-based delicacies, used to be a meal consumed only during customary or religious festivals. It was a special meal for a special occasion. It is also a very delicious meal, and in this modern era of instant gratification many people are not willing to wait for another special religious festival just to get their hands, and tongue, on their favorite meal. 

That’s one of the reasons behind the mushrooming of yellow rice vendors along the streets of Denpasar. Yellow rice has become one of the most popular breakfast items in the city. Most of the vendors open early in the morning for three to four hours. Students, office employees, professionals, civil servants, all make a brief detour to enjoy a portion of yellow rice or order a take away. One food stall on Jl. Hayam Wuruk offers this menu in a more comfortable setting. 

The roadside vendors often have a limited number of chairs and no table at all. In Warung Rahayu food stall there is a sufficient number of chairs, as well as tables. The food stall serves yellow rice until lunch time. A portion of yellow rice in Warung Rahayu comprises yellow rice, shredded spicy chicken, fried anchovies, slices of fried egg, fried grated coconut and fried tempeh. The rice is cooked with turmeric juice, lemongrass and bay leaves to enhance its savory aroma. A portion of yellow rice at this food stall costs Rp 13,000 (US$1.34), which is more expensive than the Rp 5,000 offered by the roadside vendors.

source : bali daily