Every afternoon during the month of Ramadan, the Benhil market in Jakarta bustles with hundreds of traditional dishes, from sweet Kolak dessert to savory Lontong rice.
In Jakarta, Indonesia, the month of Ramadan is not only a time for spiritual reflection but also an opportunity to explore a vibrant street food scene. The heart of this atmosphere is Benhil Market, which begins bustling from 1 PM onwards with thousands of people flocking to find food for their Iftar (break meal) after a day of fasting.
Traditional flavors at snack food paradise
Benhil Market brings together the best of Indonesian cuisine in its small stalls. Visitors can easily find crispy fried snacks, sweet porridge, and especially characteristic desserts. Besides that, main courses like chicken lontong, grilled fish, and dishes from Padang are also very popular with locals.
Most notably here is Kolak, a drink considered symbolic during Ramadan. A vendor at the market shared: "My stall sells many fried pastries like tofu cakes, banana cakes, and siomay. However, Kolak – a drink made from water, bananas, and sugar – is always our best-selling item."
Convenience and community engagement
The stalls at Benhil are neatly arranged under shelters, allowing shoppers to comfortably shop regardless of the weather. Although peak hours are usually in the late afternoon, many office workers in the area often take advantage of the opportunity to buy items early to take home to their families, creating a bustling yet cozy atmosphere.
After sunset, the meals marking the end of the fast are not simply about refueling. This is a time when friends and family often visit each other, holding small gatherings to strengthen bonds after a day of strictly adhering to religious regulations.
The humanitarian significance of Ramadan
Throughout the holy month, Muslims observe a fast of food and drink from sunrise to sunset. However, this rule is flexible, with exemptions for the elderly, children, pregnant women, or those who are sick or engaged in strenuous work.
Daytime fasting is not only a religious practice but is also seen as a way to cultivate patience, purify the soul, and awaken empathy for the suffering of the underprivileged in society.