By Kamarul Halim M Kamal

BATU PAHAT, March 29 (Bernama) --During Ramadan, Batu Pahat locals eagerly await the bubur lambuk 'tetel' or beef porridge prepared and distributed by Jorak Elahi Jamek Mosque in Bukit Pasir, here.

This recipe, preserved for over 50 years, has become a staple choice for the district's community, owing to its exquisite taste and enduring tradition.

Mohd Khalid Mohd Ali, 80, who has been tasked with preparing the porridge, said there are no variations in the ingredients used and the only distinction is that the porridge contained a relatively generous portion of tetel (beef trimmings).

He said to be able to truly enjoy bubur lambuk, it should include ample additional ingredients that serve as complementary flavours, rather than being solely rice porridge with minimal side ingredients.

"The recipe here has been passed down through generations since the 1970s when distribution began. Despite being handled by the 'fourth generation' of cooks, the recipe remains unchanged. In addition, the culinary expertise has been imparted to seven cooks to date.

"In fact, the tradition of cooking and distributing bubur lambuk tetel dates back to 1926 when the mosque was first established. However, initially, the distribution was limited to local congregants," he told Bernama recently.

Mohd Khalid added that besides using tetel, the bubur lambuk incorporates a blend of traditional spices, including herbs and authentic ingredients, cooked together.

Meanwhile, Mohd Farek Md Tap, 49, the latest in the line of cooks, expressed his commitment to preserving the tradition of preparing and distributing the porridge, ensuring its continuity for future generations.

He noted improvements in organising the yearly event, with support now from government agencies, corporations, bank, and the Batu Pahat Umno Division. This ensures the mosque committee isn't solely responsible each year.

"We'll keep distributing the bubur lambuk for a month, aiming to maintain this tradition annually," he said, highlighting that distribution was only paused in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

-- BERNAMA