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KARI DEBAL
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Introduction and history
Kari Debal is a traditional dish famous in the ethnic Portuguese cuisine of Malaysia, particularly among the Christian Portuguese community in Melaka, known as the Kristang people. This dish exemplifies the influence of Portuguese culture blended with local elements from Malay and Indian cuisine.
Kari Debal originates from Portuguese cuisine, brought to Melaka by Portuguese traders in the 16th century. Among the Kristang community, descendants of the Portuguese residing in Melaka, this dish has become a part of their cultural heritage.
Debal, meaning "bull" or "meat," refers to the beef used in this curry, but it can also be made with chicken or lamb. Kari Debal is often associated with ceremonies or celebrations, particularly Christmas, but it is also available at eateries or restaurants that serve Kristang cuisine.
Known for its spicy and richly spiced flavor, Kari Debal features aromatic spices that make it highly flavorful and fragrant. It is typically served with white rice or bread, such as Portuguese bread (pao) or pancakes, to savor its thick, rich curry sauce.
Uniqueness of Kari Debal
Portuguese Influence: Kari Debal is a culinary fusion of Portuguese cooking with Malaysian local ingredients and spices, particularly Malay and Indian.
Rich Flavor: The combination of abundant spices and coconut milk gives this curry a deep, complex flavor. It is not only spicy but also rich in savory notes with a slight tanginess from asam keping (tamarind slices).
Festive Dish: Kari Debal is often prepared during Christmas celebrations and family gatherings in the Kristang community, making it closely tied to family traditions and cultural heritage.
As a traditional dish among the Kristang community in Melaka, Kari Debal holds significant roles in the social, cultural, and heritage aspects of this community. Below are its primary roles:
Cultural and Traditional Heritage
Kari Debal symbolizes the blend of Portuguese influence with local culture, especially Malay and Indian. This dish showcases how Portuguese cuisine adapted to local ingredients and became part of the Kristang identity in Melaka. For instance, the use of rich spices and coconut milk gives Kari Debal a unique characteristic within Malay cuisine.
Promoting Kristang Cuisine
Kari Debal plays a key role in introducing Kristang cuisine to the wider community, particularly to those unfamiliar with it. Through this dish, outsiders can learn about and appreciate the Portuguese ethnic cuisine that has been adapted with local elements.
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500g beef (or chicken/lamb), cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
1 inch ginger, blended
2 cloves garlic, blended
1 large onion, blended
2–3 large chilies (adjust to desired spice level)
200ml coconut milk
2–3 slices asam keping (tamarind slices) or tamarind juice
Salt and sugar to taste
Oil for sautéing
Steps:
Sauté Blended Ingredients
Heat a little oil in a wok, then sauté the onion, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass until fragrant and aromatic.
Add Curry Spices
Add curry powder and blended chilies (adjust the amount for extra spiciness) to the sautéed mixture. Cook until the spices are cooked and release a strong aroma.
Add the Meat
Add the beef (or other choice of meat) cut into small pieces. Stir well until the meat changes color.
Add Water and Cook
Pour in some water and cook the meat until tender. Add more water if needed. Allow it to simmer until the sauce thickens.
Add Coconut Milk and Tamarind
Once the meat is tender, add coconut milk and asam keping. Stir well and let it simmer. Adjust the taste by adding salt and sugar to balance the flavors.
Simmer Until Thickened
Allow the curry to cook until the sauce becomes thick and rich. Kari Debal is now ready to be served with white rice or bread.
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Reference Source
Bahan Bacaan
Ismail, Z. (2010). Makanan Tradisional Portugis di Malaysia: Kaitan Antara Budaya dan Rasa. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Ramos, A. (2015). Warisan Kristang: Masakan dan Tradisi Masyarakat Portugis di Melaka. Melaka: Penerbitan Kristang.
Location
State JKKN Contact Information
Nur Al-Farani binti Rosli
Cultural Officer
Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Melaka
Kompleks JKKN Melaka
Hang Tuah Jaya, Lebuh Ayer Keroh,
75450 MELAKA
06 - 763 6308
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