Rendang, the Minang Dish That Conquered the World

Rendang comes from the Minangkabau region of West Sumatra. Beef is slowly cooked in coconut milk with chilli, shallots, ginger, galangal, turmeric, lemongrass and turmeric leaves until the sauce evaporates and the spices are fully absorbed.

More than a dish

Its hours-long cooking process makes rendang a symbol of patience. It is often served at traditional ceremonies and celebrations. Because it keeps well, rendang has long been a staple for Minang people travelling far from home.

Rendang was once named one of the world's most delicious foods in a CNN Travel readers' poll, boosting its international fame.

Rendang or kalio?

If cooking stops while the sauce is still thick and oily, the result is called kalio. True rendang is cooked longer until it turns dark brown and dry.

When in Padang or Bukittinggi, also try egg rendang, beef lung rendang and jengkol rendang.