When comes to finding the world's most delicious food, opinions can vary greatly. However, according to a recent poll by CNN, there's one dish that stands out above the rest: Rendang. This savory meat dish from West Sumatra, Indonesia took the crown as the Best Food in CNN's World's 50 Best Foods in 2011 and has once again claimed the number one spot in the most recent list published on July 12, 2017. It's no surprise that Rendang is so beloved, given its rich flavors and tender texture. So what makes this dish so special? Let's take a closer look.
1. Introduction: Why Rendang is the Best Food in the World
Rendang is undoubtedly one of the most delicious dishes in the world. It has an excellent combination of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds, making it an instant hit among food lovers. This West Sumatran dish has taken the world by storm, and for excellent reasons. Not only is it delicious, but it is also rich in history, culture and philosophy. According to CNN's World's 50 Best Foods List, Rendang is the 11th spot, and Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism considers it a national dish. Its popularity is so remarkable that it even has rendang variations across Indonesia such as beef rendang, chicken rendang, fish rendang, egg rendang, squid rendang, and shrimp rendang.
The preparation process is complex, where the beef is tenderized and dried, and the cooking process takes at least 7-8 hours. This dish requires patience and perseverance, which are essential values for the people of Minangkabau in Indonesia. In Reno Adam Suri's book, Rendang Traveler: Minyangkap Bertuahnya Rendang Minang (2012), rendang was referred to as the "head of dishes" at Minangkabau traditional events, highlighting its significance in Indonesian culture.
Whether you're a fan or a new comer, trying rendang is a must! As Chef Gordon Ramsay once said, "I fell in love with Rendang right after tasting it for the first time." So why not indulge in this mouth-watering dish and experience the unique taste and culture of Indonesia. [1][2]
2. Origin and History of Rendang
The history of Rendang is a fascinating story that dates back centuries. According to sources, Rendang originated in West Sumatra and was traditionally made by the Minangkabau people. It is believed that Rendang has Indian roots due to its similarity to Indian curry, which was introduced to the region by Indian merchants before the 15th century. The Minangkabau people then modified the recipe and created Wet Rendang, which was further cooked until it became dry, also known as Dry Rendang. This process enabled rendang to have a long shelf life and could be stored during long journeys, hence making it a popular food among travellers.
Prof. Gusti Asnan puts forward an argument that rendang began to spread across the region when Minangkabau merchants began to trade and migrate to Malaysia during the 16th century. During this time, a dried Padang rendang was a durable food, suitable for a long journey through the river waterways in Sumatra.
Today, Rendang is known worldwide and included in the official list of Indonesia's national dishes, and in 2011, a broad survey placed beef rendang as the most delicious dish in the world. Rendang has become so popular that Minangkabau eating establishments are ubiquitous in Indonesian cities, and rendang has been introduced and popularised across the wider world.
Rendang remains an essential dish for special occasions in traditional Minang ceremonies, from birth ceremonies to circumcisions, marriages, Quran recitals, and religious festivals. Rendang is a revered dish in Minangkabau culture, representing the philosophy of discussion and consultation with elders, where the four main ingredients represent Minangkabau society as a whole. [3][4]
3. Ingredients that make Rendang Delicious
Rendang is a slow-cooked meat dish that originated from the Minangkabau people of Indonesia. This flavorful dish has been recognized as the most delicious food in the world and is known for its complex cooking process. One of the key ingredients that make Rendang delicious is the use of coconut milk. The coconut milk is added gradually during the cooking process, allowing the flavors to develop slowly while giving the dish a rich, creamy texture.
Another essential ingredient used in rendang is a variety of aromatic spices, such as turmeric, ginger, and lemongrass. These spices enhance the flavor of the dish and add depth and complexity to the sauce. As the dish is slow-cooked, the spices release oils, which further intensify the flavors and infuse the meat with a rich aroma.
Moreover, rendang also uses a unique variety of chili pepper called the cili padi, which is known for its spiciness and distinct flavor. The chili pepper adds a fiery kick to the dish, which balances the sweetness of the coconut milk and complements the complex flavors of the spices.
In conclusion, the combination of coconut milk, aromatic spices, and cili padi is what makes Rendang a flavorful and delicious dish. As chef William Wongso puts it, “The essence of Rendang lies in the layers of flavors, produced by the combination of fragrant herbs and spices, and the rich and creamy coconut sauce that coats the meat.” So, next time you have the chance, give Rendang a try and indulge in its heavenly taste. [5][6]
4. The Preparation Process for Rendang
The preparation process for rendang is a crucial step in achieving the delightful taste of this mouth-watering dish. Rendang requires a high level of patience and attention to detail to ensure the perfect blend of flavors. The process starts with selecting the right cut of beef, preferably tenderloin, as it needs to be cooked for several hours until it becomes tender and infused with the rich flavors of the spices used.
To start the cooking process, the beef is simmered in a mixture of coconut milk and spices which includes turmeric, galangal, garlic, onion, and lemongrass. The spices used in rendang are what make it unique and distinct. According to an article on Indonesia Travel, "Rendang is not actually a name for a dish. It's basically a philosophical term that refers to a special process which makes beef tender, dry, and flavorful."
Once the mixture comes to a boil, it is then lowered to a simmer for several hours to allow the beef to cook fully and absorb the flavors of the spices. This process is repeated until the liquid has evaporated, and the beef becomes tender and moist. As the coconut milk reduces, it turns into a thick, caramel-like sauce that clings to every piece of meat, giving a unique texture to the dish.
Finally, the dish is left to cool for a few hours to allow the flavors to develop further before serving. It can be served with steamed rice or as part of a more elaborate meal with other traditional Indonesian side dishes. As stated by Indonesia Travel, "Rendang is traditionally served during special occasions and to special people."
Overall, the preparation process for this delicious dish requires patience, attention to detail, and a deep appreciation for the unique flavors created by the special blend of spices. When properly cooked, Rendang is a masterpiece that will be sure to satisfy your taste buds. [7][8]
5. Rendang Variations Across Indonesia
Rendang is a delicious Indonesian dish that has been making waves across the globe. However, did you know that there are various rendang variations across Indonesia? Each region has its own twist on this classic dish, making it a unique culinary experience.
In West Sumatra, where rendang originated, there are several variations. One is the Rendang Minangkabau, which is known for having a thick sauce and tender meat. Another is the Rendang Padang, which is more on the dry side and has a darker color due to the use of toasted coconut.
Moving to South Sumatra, they have a rendang variation called Rendang palembang. It is made with beef lung and kidneys, making it a unique and flavorful experience. Meanwhile, in Aceh, the Rendang Aceh is known for its spiciness and the use of different spices, such as coriander, cumin, and fennel.
In Bali, they have a rendang variation called Rendang Bali, which is usually served with a side of steamed veggies and sambal. It has a lighter color compared to other rendang variations due to the use of lemongrass and turmeric. In Sulawesi, they have Rendang Toraja, which is typically made with buffalo meat and is slow-cooked for hours, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
It's fascinating to see how each region puts its own spin on rendang, making it a diverse and exciting dish to try. As food writer, James Ramsden, puts it, "The beauty of rendang lies in its variety - no two rendangs are the same." So, next time you're in Indonesia, be sure to try different rendang variations to get a taste of the different regions' flavors. [9][10]
6. How Rendang Became the Best Food in CNN’s World’s 50 Best Foods List
In2011, Rendang, the mouth-watering meat dish from West Sumatra, claimed the top spot in CNN’s World’s 50 Best Foods list. And in 2017, it retained its position at number one, cementing its status as "the most delicious food in the world." But how did Rendang achieve such a prestigious title?
According to CNN, the list was compiled based on a poll on Facebook, with over 35,000 votes cast from across the globe. Interestingly, Rendang and Nasi Goreng, Indonesia’s beloved fried rice, landed the top two spots, confirming the country’s dominance in culinary delights. Another Indonesian treasure, Sate, also made it onto the list, securing 14th place.
Now, what makes Rendang stand out from other dishes? Rendang is known for its complex flavor, thanks to a combination of aromatic herbs and spices, including ginger, turmeric, galangal, and lemongrass. These ingredients are carefully cooked into a slow-cooked stew of beef or other meats, tenderizing and infusing the meat with flavor.
"Rendang is the epitome of the perfect slow-cooked dish," says culinary expert William Wongso. "The meat should be tender, juicy, and oozing with flavor, while the sauce should be rich and thick." According to Wongso, part of Rendang’s appeal is that it’s not too spicy, allowing diners to savor all the complex flavors.
In summary, Rendang won the top spot on CNN’s World’s 50 Best Foods list due to its unique and flavorful combination of spices, slow cooking process, and tender meat. So, it’s not surprising that food lovers from around the world have developed a love affair with Rendang – it’s truly the most delicious food in the world! [11][12]
7. Rendang vs. Other Famous Foods in the World
When it comes to the world's most famous foods, Rendang undoubtedly stands out. In fact, it beat out all other competitors in CNN's World's 50 Best Foods poll. This iconic Indonesian dish features meat that's been slow-cooked in a rich combination of coconut milk and spices until it's incredibly tender and perfectly seasoned. However, how does it stack up against other iconic dishes from around the world?
One of the most famous rival dishes is Indian Butter Chicken, which features tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce. While it's certainly a classic, many argue that it doesn't quite compare to the complex flavors of Rendang. Vietnamese Pho is another dish that's often mentioned in the same breath as Rendang, thanks to its complex broth and tender meat. But again, most fans of Rendang would likely agree that it's on another level entirely.
However, it's worth noting that Rendang has some similarities to dishes like Thai Massaman Curry and Filipino Beef Adobo. All three dishes feature tender meat in a rich and flavorful sauce, with spices that are expertly balanced. Still, most would argue that Rendang is the most sophisticated of the bunch thanks to its complex blend of spices.
Overall, while there are certainly many iconic dishes from around the world that are worth trying, few can compete with the unique and delicious flavors of Rendang. As CNN's poll shows, this dish is truly in a league of its own. [13][14]
8. Tips for Cooking Rendang at Home
Rendang, a traditional Indonesian dish, is not only popular in its home country but also around the world. The slow-cooked beef dish has been named the most delicious food in the world, and it's no secret why. If you're interested in making rendang at home, you can follow some tips and techniques to ensure that the dish turns out perfectly.
Firstly, it's important to choose the right ingredients. The recipe calls for a variety of herbs and spices, including turmeric, galangal, and lemongrass, all of which must be fresh. While it may seem daunting to gather all the ingredients, it's worth the effort for the taste.
Secondly, to ensure that the beef stays tender while cooking, it's essential to marinate it for a few hours before cooking it. The marinade can be made by combining garlic, ginger, and other spices with the meat.
One important tip while cooking is to avoid stirring the beef too frequently, as it can break apart the meat.
Another tip is to be patient while cooking rendang. The process can take anywhere from three to six hours to complete, depending on how tender you would like the beef to be.
After the dish is cooked, it is best to let it sit for a few hours before serving it. As with any good stew or curry, rendang tastes even better reheated the next day.
In conclusion, rendang is a delicious dish that can be made at home with the right ingredients and techniques. With some patience and practice, you can create a rendang that can rival any restaurant version. As Beryl Newman said, "Rendang is not just a food, it's a work of art." [15][16]
9. How to Enjoy Rendang
Rang is one of the world's tastiest and most famous dishes. It's a versatile dish, and there are many ways to enjoy the rich flavors of this traditional Indonesian food.
Here are some tips on how to enjoy rendang:
1. Pair it with white rice: Rendang is best enjoyed with a bowl of white rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce and balances its spiciness. As a rice-centric culture, Indonesians pair most of their dishes with rice to complement and balance out the flavors, so give it a try.
2. Try different variations: While beef rendang is the most famous, there are also rendang variations for chicken, fish, egg, squid, and shrimp. Each variation has its unique flavor, so it's worth trying them all.
3. Experiment with side dishes: You can enhance your rendang experience by pairing it with some refreshing side dishes like sambal, pickled vegetables, fried tempeh, or crispy anchovies. These side dishes will serve as palate cleansers while adding some texture to your meal.
4. Appreciate the complexity of the cooking process: As mentioned above, rendang's cooking process requires patience, discretion, and perseverance. So, when you savor the rich flavors of rendang, take a moment to appreciate the time and effort put into preparing this dish.
In the words of Anthony Bourdain, "It's the king of curries...the most complex curry on earth." Give rendang a try, and you'll understand why it's one of the world's best dishes. [17][18]
Serving Suggestions
If're looking to experience the mouth-watering goodness of rendang, here are some serving suggestions that you could try:
- Rice is the most common accompaniment to rendang. The aromatic spiced meat dish is best enjoyed with fluffy, steamed rice, which helps to balance out the richness of the dish.
- You could also try pairing rendang with some crispy crackers, which adds some lovely texture to the dish. Some freshly sliced cucumbers or tomatoes can add a pop of color and freshness to your platter.
- Another option is to serve rendang with some Chinese steamed buns or soft Indonesian sweet buns (known as "roti jala") to soak up all the flavorful gravy.
- If you're feeling adventurous, you could try pairing rendang with some Asian slaw or pickled vegetables to cut through the richness of the dish.
- Elevate your rendang by incorporating it into other dishes. Use leftover rendang as a filling for tacos, wrap it up in a burrito or serve it over noodles.
- If you're feeling like indulging, try rendang pizza topped with mozzarella cheese, sliced onions, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
As food writer and researcher Adey Sugiarto notes, "The versatility of rendang is truly remarkable, making it one of the most exciting dishes to experiment with in terms of pairing and presentation." So go ahead and get creative with your rendang serving suggestions! [19][20]
10. Conclusion: Why You Should Try Rendang ASAP
In, Rendang has rightfully earned its place as one of the most delicious foods in the world, according to various sources and surveys. Not only is it a dish with a rich history and cultural significance, but its unique taste and tenderness are unparalleled.
Here are some reasons why you should try Rendang ASAP:
So what are you waiting for? Whether you're a foodie or just someone who likes to try new things, Rendang is a dish that cannot be missed. As food critic William Wongso said, "if you taste Rendang once, there is no going back." [21][22]
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