There is a unique tradition related to food consumption, known as ngrowot practiced in several Indonesian Islamic boarding schools (pesantren). It is a concerned behavior by forbidding students (hereinafter referred to as santri) to consume rice and various processed foods made from rice. Instead, they consume maize and cassava as their staple foods. This study aims to explore the spiritual dimension related to food consumption. Assessing food consumption from the perspective of spirituality is an attempt to analyze the consumption behavior is not only a daily routine activity, but also may be driven by religious beliefs supported by local culture. Using Islamic Boarding Schools in Tegal Rejo Sub-District, Magelang Regency, Central Java Province as our research respondent. This study uses a mix method in data collection, including in-depth interviews, observation and participatory research action.Our findings show that ngrowot reminds people to consider local food tradition besides rice as their staple foods. The religious arguments of ngrowot have motivated santri to practice ngrowot with strong commitment and discipline. It is believed to strengthen santri"s mind because it teaches the values of patience and self-control. This study uses interdisciplinary approach including sociology, anthropology, and Islamic spirituality, which leads to a comprehensive finding. The study recommend that food diversification programs need to consider local culture and wisdom, as well as religious aspects. The practice of ngrowot performed on a large scale can be an alternative way for supporting food diversification programs.