Rendang originates from West Sumatra, Indonesia. Here water buffalo was traditionally used as meat. Rendang is a popular dish on our Little India and Kampong Glam tour. It’s a meat dish (usually beef) stewed in coconut milk and spices.
Today, Rendang is very popular among the Malay and Indonesian community in Singapore. Especially so during Hari Raya. It is one of the main dishes for Hari Raya celebrations. The best rendang comes with ketupat, a flavourful rice cake.
Like any other star of our food tour, this dish also has a long history in Singapore. It can be traced back to Malaysia and Indonesia. There are distinct versions across the states of these countries.
The best meat to use in the Rendang is beef. Stewed in coconut milk with spices. Ginger, chilli, galangal, lemongrass, garlic, shallot, kaffir lime leaves and turmeric are all used. Another important fact about Rendang is, it takes almost three hours to cook. But like all good food. The best things come to those who wait.
The long cooking process helps to add flavour to the meat, soften and tenderized it as the dish dries up. It requires a skill to ensure the heat is just right to avoid over cooked meat. With the right cooking method, the liquid will thicken into the distinctive rendang gravy. We have had a few guests on our food tour actually take a second portion away with them to enjoy later that day. It is one of those dishes that will get better and better.
An important celebratory food in Singapore.
Back in the day, Rendang symbolized wealth of a person or community. The meat used in Rendang used to be water buffalo. Normally, an entire water buffalo was used in this dish. With that, it is considered a celebratory meal, served during special occasions. Here in Singapore we celebrate Hari Raya & Malay Weddings with this food. But like so many other types of food here in Singapore we all enjoy it, no matter what race or religion.
Book the best food tour in Singapore today and find out more about Rendang! Our new Little India and Kampong Glam food tour is the best option to try this dish.
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