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Dili (Timor-Leste)
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Side dish
Vegetarian
Food Flavour DNA
Nutritional Values
240kcal
5gProtein
54gCarbs
3gFat
1gFibre
200 gServing
* Per serving · 200 g. May vary.
Allergens
🌾 Gluten
Ketupa
How to order / say it
Say it
Ketupa — [keh-too-pah]
Order
Can I have some Ketupa?
Locally
Ita bele foo ida Ketupa?
Say locally
Pressed rice cakes typically served with curries.
Why try it?
Ketupa is a quintessential part of Dili's festive meals, commonly served during local events and gatherings to bring people together. It reflects the importance of rice in Timorese culture.
How it tastes
Rice cakes have a firm yet slightly chewy texture, lightly seasoned, making them an ideal accompaniment to rich dishes. They absorb flavors well, enhancing curries and stews.
Origin & History — first documented: 1910
The concept of pressed rice dates back to Dili's early 20th century celebrations, where efficient ways to serve rice quickly were developed, creating Ketupa, a favored festival dish.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 🌾 500 g rice
- 🥛 100 ml coconut milk
- 🥕 4 leaves banana leaves
- 800 ml water
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
Method
- 1 Cook rice with coconut milk and salt.
- 2 Shape rice into cakes using banana leaves.
- 3 Steam until firm.
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