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Nasi kuning

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Nasi kuning

Nasi kuning (literally, "yellow rice"; Indonesian pronunciation: [ˌnasi ˈkunɪŋ]), sometimes called nasi kunyit (literally, "turmeric rice"; Indonesian pronunciation: [ˌnasi ˈkuɲɪt̪̚]), is an Indonesian fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk and turmeric, hence the name nasi kuning (yellow rice). Nasi kuning also can be found in neighbouring Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore and Cocos Island, Australia.

Because of its perceived favourable fortune and auspicious meaning, nasi kuning is often served as a special dish for celebrations; e.g. community rituals, ceremonies, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and also the independence day celebration. Nevertheless, it is also a favourite dish for breakfast in Indonesia.

In the Philippines, a related dish exists in Mindanao, particularly among the Maranao people, where it is known as kuning. Like the Indonesian version, it primarily uses turmeric, but also adds lemongrass and does not use coconut milk. A similar dish is also found in Sri Lankan cuisine where it is known as kaha buth (and lamprais) and draws from both Indonesian and Sri Lankan influences.

The origin of nasi kuning can be traced to the culinary legacy of ancient Java and Bali. The earliest record of nasi kuning came from Majapahit period in Java circa 13th century. Nasi kuning was first served as a special dish in a religious events, traditional ceremonies or weddings for Javanese nobles. This food was originally only served at certain times for nobles, high status and distinguished people.

In Javanese tradition, the colour yellow symbolises wealth and prosperity, because of its association with gold pieces as a symbol of wealth, and also the colour of ripe rice ready to be harvested, all are the symbol of prosperity. Slightly different in predominantly Hindu island of Bali, the colour yellow symbolised a sacred aspect of Mahadewa. Therefore, yellow is very commonly used as the dominant colour in the Kuningan Day celebrations of the Hindu-Balinese community.

Nasi kuning is mentioned in early 19th century Javanese literature Serat Centhini as sega punar or sega wuduk punar. It is a variant of sega wuduk or rice cooked in coconut milk, but with the addition of turmeric which creates yellowish colour, thus the name punar is synonym with kuning in Javanese which means "yellow".

In Javanese tradition, nasi kuning is often served as a form of gratitude and prayer for blessings. Nasi kuning is a means of praying that the family or community will be given health, prosperity and blessings in their lives. Nasi kuning as cone-shaped tumpeng is essential in Javanese selamatan rituals, especially among traditional Kejawen community as offerings or consumed as communal meals.

Nasi kuning is often described as "Indonesian yellow rice", although it is also served in neighbouring countries, e.g. in Malaysia as nasi kunyit and in the Philippines as kuning. This yellow rice dish holds a special cultural significance in some cultures in the region, considered as an auspicious food item essential for ceremonies, rituals and celebrations.

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