Every year during Ramadan, you’ll see dozens of vendors competing to sell all kinds of iftar snacks. This is where the takjil war phenomenon begins. The term takjil war itself means ‘a battle for takjil,’ referring to the Ramadan street food hunt before breaking the fast.
'First come, first served!' That’s the golden rule for anyone hunting for Iftar snacks in the evening, which is why it’s often called takjil war. Let’s dive deeper into this unique Ramadan tradition below!
Exploring the Ramadan Street Food Hunt Phenomenon in Indonesia
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Break your fast with something sweet.” This has become deeply ingrained in Indonesian culture, which is why the tradition of takjil war has emerged. Literally, takjil refers to food used to break the fast.
Takjil war is the frenzy of hunting for iftar snacks just before breaking the fast. It’s a massive Ramadan street food hunt, where crowds rush to grab their favorite treats before sunset. Throughout Ramadan, you’ll find this phenomenon at every Ramadan market.
It’s a race. Whoever gets there first secures their favorite takjil. On the other hand, those who arrive late risk missing out.
This frenzy usually kicks off in the late afternoon as Maghrib approaches. Many people also use this time for ngabuburit (passing time before iftar), making the wait for breaking the fast feel much shorter and more exciting.
As evening draws near, Ramadan street food stalls come alive with vendors selling a variety of food and drinks, whether light snacks for breaking the fast or heartier meals for dinner. The bustling atmosphere makes it feel like an actual battle for the best treats.
Takjil War, A Sign of Strong Religious Tolerance
Who says the Ramadan street food hunt is only for Muslims who are fasting? If you've been keeping up with social media trends lately, you've probably noticed many non-Muslims joining in on the excitement. This phenomenon showcases a high level of tolerance and religious harmony.
Both Muslims and non-Muslims shop together in the spirit of Ramadan, creating a warm and lively atmosphere that reflects the peaceful coexistence of society.
Tips for Enjoying the Ramadan Street Food Hunt While Staying Healthy
The thrill of hunting for takjil is irresistible, but staying healthy should still be a priority. Make sure to pick takjil that not only satisfies your cravings but also supports your well-being. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
1. Limit Sugary Foods and Fried Snacks
During Ramadan, markets are filled with sweet treats and fried snacks, making them especially tempting after a long day of fasting.
While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying them, it’s best to limit your intake to avoid consuming too much sugar, salt, and fat.
2. Buy Snacks in Moderation
Don’t turn Iftar into a way to make up for a full day of fasting by overindulging in food and drinks. It’s best to buy just enough takjil to avoid overeating, as this can negatively affect digestion.
3. Monitor the Cleanliness of the Location and the Products Sold
One of the key factors when purchasing takjil from outside vendors is ensuring its cleanliness. This plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety of the food and drinks you consume.
Start by observing the vendor’s location. Are they selling by the roadside, in a market, or near a mosque? Most importantly, ensure the area is not close to drainage systems or waste disposal sites.
Additionally, assess the appearance of the takjil, including its packaging. Make sure the food and beverages are properly sealed and protected to prevent exposure to dust.
The Ramadan street food hunt has become an integral part of the holy month for Muslims in Indonesia. Breaking the fast just wouldn’t feel the same without a variety of delicious takjil to indulge in.
But while you're stocking up on takjil, don’t forget about hydration! Make sure you have a 19-liter AQUA Gallon at home to keep you and your family refreshed after a long day of fasting.
Thanks to its large size, AQUA Gallon helps ensure you and your family have enough drinking water every day. No worries about the price! It’s super affordable at just around 1,000 IDR per liter.
Plus, cleanliness isn’t an issue either, as each AQUA Gallon undergoes 20 rounds of high-pressure cleaning.
Did you know that not all water is AQUA? AQUA is naturally filtered through layers of mineral-rich rocks and processed without ever being touched by human hands. It also goes through 400 quality tests before it reaches you.
As a proudly Indonesian brand, AQUA is Halal-certified, BPOM-approved, and meets SNI standards, ensuring it is a safe choice for daily hydration. AQUA 100% Pure, 100% Indonesian, 100% Halal.
