Rijsttafel (translation: “rice table”), pronounced RICE-taffle, is a delightful assortment of dishes from various Indonesian islands, making it an excellent introduction to “indisch” (colonial Indonesian) cuisine. When you enjoy rijsttafel at a restaurant, you will find the table laden with an array of diverse dishes. However, it is important to note that rijsttafel, despite its Indonesian origins, is not authentically Indonesian. Instead, it is a culinary tradition that stems from the period of Dutch colonization in Indonesia (1602-1942). During that era, the Dutch East India Company traded in the abundant natural resources of the Spice Islands, leading to the invention of rijsttafel—modeled after the Indonesian feast nasi padang. This banquet style allowed Dutch colonials to sample a variety of dishes from Java, Bali, Sumatra, and numerous other islands. Lavish banquets could have showcased upwards of a hundred different dishes. Consequently, this culinary experience was introduced to the Netherlands by colonials and Indonesian expatriates, where it has remained a popular fixture in Indonesian restaurants.

What Dishes Appear On a Rijsttafel?

Every rijsttafel is uniquely crafted, as the selection of dishes depends on the chef’s creativity. Typically, a rijsttafel may consist of 12 to 25 dishes, complemented by either white or fried rice (nasi putih or goreng), noodles (bami goreng), or a combination of both. Some popular dishes that you might find in a rijsttafel include:

• Gado gado – a cooked vegetable salad lavishly topped with a rich peanut sauce
• Pisang goreng – delectable banana fritters
• Sambal goreng tempeh – fried tempeh, or fermented soybean cake, served in a dark, savory sauce
• Sambal telur – hard-boiled eggs marinated in a peppery sauce
• Sayur lodeh – mixed vegetables enveloped in a spicy coconut-milk sauce

Moreover, rijsttafel typically includes sides of atjar tjampoer (Indonesian mixed pickles that cool the palate), serundeng (grated coconut infused with roasted peanuts), and a variety of sauces and condiments that tantalize the senses. Don’t forget to try spekkoek, the classic Indonesian spice cake, for a delightful dessert!

Where Can I Order Rijsttafel in Amsterdam?

Rijsttafel is easily accessible at nearly every Indonesian or “Indies” restaurant in Amsterdam; however, the quality often varies. It’s advisable to explore a curated list of the best Indonesian restaurants in the city for top recommendations. One notable establishment is Amsterdam’s restaurant Tempo Doeloe (Utrechtsestraat 75), which has received a Michelin Bib Gourmand award—recognizing it as one of the best affordable dining options for Dutch-Indonesian cuisine.