A Celebration of Tradition and Culture
On November 26, 2024, a special evening took place at Momentum in Deventer. During the exclusive Jamu Masterclass, organized in collaboration with the V-Fonds, tradition, culture and craft were central. This unique meeting brought together a group of participants of Indonesian and Moluccan descent, with the aim of keeping the knowledge about Jamu alive and passing it on to new generations.
The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a perfect setting to discover and celebrate the rich traditions of Indonesia. With a mix of inspiring stories, practical workshops and moments of connection, it was an evening that left a lasting impression on everyone.
The evening began with an inspiring introduction where we shared the rich history of Jamu. From the traditional vendors, the Ibu Jamu, to the balance of flavors within the Jamu Mandala, participants gained a deeper appreciation for this age-old practice. We discussed how flavors such as sweet, sour, bitter and pungent together make a balanced taste experience.
What is Jamu and why is it important?
Jamu, a traditional Indonesian herbal drink, is much more than just a drink. It is a practice that has been passed down for centuries. With ingredients such as turmeric , ginger , tamarind and other herbs, Jamu has an earthy, spiced and lightly sour flavour profile.
During the masterclass we delved deeper into the history of Jamu, from the role of the traditional Ibu Jamu to the concept of the Jamu Mandala, in which flavours such as sweet, sour, bitter and pungent contribute to a harmonious balance. This knowledge, often passed down within families, is an essential part of Indonesian cultural heritage.
Mocktail workshop: creative with jamu
One of the highlights of the evening was the hands-on mocktail workshop. Participants had the chance to explore the versatility of Jamu by making creative drinks using Good Jamu as a base.
With flavors like Tropical Turmeric and Island Ginger, participants were able to experiment by combining Jamu with sparkling water, fresh mint, and other ingredients. The result? Refreshing drinks that not only tasted delicious, but also put a modern twist on this age-old tradition. This workshop emphasized that Jamu is not only a historical ritual, but also fits perfectly into today's alcohol free drinks culture.
Importance of tradition and preservation
During the masterclass it became clear why preserving Jamu is so important. In a world where traditions are often lost due to modernization, Jamu is a tangible symbol of care, community and culture. Sharing this knowledge with new generations is a way to preserve heritage and keep it alive.
The V-Fonds played an important role in making this event possible. Their support emphasizes the importance of passing on intangible heritage, so that traditions such as Jamu are not lost, but continue to flourish.
Future of jamu
This masterclass was just the beginning. At Good Jamu, we continue to work to put Jamu on the map, not just as a drink, but as a bridge between the past and the future. Future events will continue to focus on sharing knowledge, inspiring communities and making Jamu accessible to everyone interested in flavour and culture.
Stay connected
Want to learn more about Jamu or join our next workshops? Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Together we keep the tradition of Jamu alive and accessible for the next generation.
