Shrida the Taste of Ubud Restaurant serves one special menu. It is called Megibung. It might sound strange to you. Yet, it is one of the famous Balinese cuisine traditions.
Speaking about Balinese cuisine, you might have heard several popular names. Sate Lilit is one of them. Made of minced meat wrapped around lemongrass stalk and then grilled, this dish has made many tourists addicted to its flavor.
They also have Ayam Betutu. It is a slow-cooked chicken dish. It uses various spices you can only find on the island. Moreover, the slow-cooked method also creates deep flavors. It is indeed one of the best chicken dishes in the world.
However, Megibung is different. It has more than just a cuisine. It has a deeper meaning, offers unique experiences, and is one of a kind. This time, you will learn more about this unique Balinese tradition.
What is Megibung?
In short, it is a food-sharing tradition. Some people will sit together. Then, they use one big plate to serve the food. Then, those who attend this occasion will eat together.
In the past, the Balinese didn’t use plates. They use a banana leaf to serve the food. They choose a big banana leaf. Then, wash it to ensure it is safe to use. After that, the foods are placed on the leaf.
Eating on top of banana leaves creates a different experience. However, for convenience and practicality, people use big plates made of glass or plastic to serve the food. This new Megibung plate is easy to use and clean.
The History of Megibung
The first person who introduced this tradition was a king. His name is I Gusti Agung Anglurah Ketut Karangasem. He was the King of Karangasem kingdom. This tradition emerged in 1692. Since then, the Balinese have kept this tradition. Thanks to that, they have successfully preserved this tradition. Now, it has become one of the well-known traditional menus of many restaurants in Bali. Shrida is one of them.
The event that becomes the starting point of the creation of this tradition can be considered unique. At that time, the King of Karangasem went to war. He and his army went to Lombok Island to attack other kingdoms.
In the middle of the expedition, the king commanded all soldiers to gather around and make a circle. He also joined in that circle. Then, in the middle of the circle, they served food. This eating session gave birth to the Megibung tradition.
The Meaning of Megibung
Megibung holds a meaning regarding togetherness. When the King of Karangasem created it, it was to bond everyone who joined the expedition. There was no difference in caste and position. Everyone was in an equal place, eating from one plate. That would lift the spirit of the soldiers and help them face the enemy.
Today, people also do Megibung with a similar purpose. They use it to strengthen the bond between the participants. Interestingly, many Megibung event participants are not familiar with each other. They are new people or know little about other participants.
In Megibung, it includes small talk and conversation during eating. Therefore, they can get closer to each other after this occasion. They also can make a new friend with Megibung.
Megibung also is a manifestation of the spirit of togetherness. It is the principle that becomes the foundation of different traditions and social life in Bali. It creates harmony that helps people to attain a better life.
Megibung at Shrida
Shrida Ubud also keeps the authentic Megibung tradition through its Megibung menu. You will enjoy the food on a big wooden plate. The plate is covered by banana leaves. This combination creates an amazing visual you won’t find elsewhere. You can feel the true traditional Balinese cuisine.
As for the food, there are seven dishes. All of them are traditional Balinese cuisine. You will get an appetizer. Then, the soup will be served soon after that.
Also, it doesn’t feel complete without tasting the traditional chili sauce. It is also called Sambal. In Shrida’s Megibung menu, you can enjoy three types of Sambal. Make sure you try them all. Each of Sambal gives different flavors and vibes.
Then, you finish the Megibung with a signature Balinese dessert. The entire Megibung menu is the best combination of Shrida’s Balinese cuisine. The combination creates the best flavor. Thus, it gives you the best dining experience.
Megibung is a perfect menu for five to seven people. Therefore, it is the best choice for family dinners. You also can order it when you eat together with your friends.
Final Words
Enjoying Megibung at Shrida is not only delicious. It also symbolizes equality and togetherness. Therefore, you should try it with your friends. It helps you to strengthen your relationship and bond. You will return with something precious after dinner at Shrida Taste of Ubud Restaurant.
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