This morning the air was still fresh, a thin layer of dew clung to the leaves, and the sun's rays began to peek shyly over the eastern horizon. My stomach had been signaling since dawn, sending signals of hunger that couldn't be ignored. So began my little adventure in search of breakfast.
My footsteps led me out of the house, along the still-empty village streets. Occasionally, I could see residents hurrying to the rice fields, hoes slung over their shoulders. The distinct smell of wet soil, combined with the fragrant aroma of toasted bread, emanating from nowhere, made my hunger even more tempting.
At the end of the street, a small food stall was already bustling. Several men sat sipping black coffee, while women selected vegetables to take home. On the side of the table, plates of fried foods still steamed with the scent of fried bananas, stuffed tofu, and tempeh mendoan (fried tempeh mendoan) enticed me.
But I wasn't giving up on my first choice. The steps continued, passing a chicken porridge vendor with his distinctive voice calling out to customers, "Bubur... bubur..." Then there was a nasi uduk (rice porridge) vendor who had just arranged side dishes of yellow fried chicken, stir-fried tempeh, and peanut sauce, all neatly arranged.
Finally, my choice fell on a plate of rice cakes with vegetables, freshly removed from the wok, steeped in thick coconut milk. The aroma of bay leaves, lemongrass, and spices filled the air. A sip of hot sweet tea was the perfect accompaniment. Sitting on a simple wooden bench, I savored bite after bite, watching the morning bustle continue around me.
This morning's breakfast may have been simple, but it contained an irreplaceable story, aroma, and atmosphere. A warm, flavorful, and energizing start to the day.
| Photographer | Smartphone used | Location |
|---|---|---|
 @gunting | Realme C53 | Aceh Province. Indonesian Country. |
@gunting