5 Reasons For Rendang Padang As The Best Food In The World

Illustration of rendang padang as the best food in the world (Unsplash/Below Reserve)

YOGYAKARTA – Minangkabau cuisine is being discussed again because a Padang food stall selling pork is found in the Kelappa Gading area, North Jakarta. According to Fadli Zon, culinary creations using pork ingredients can injure the typical image of Halal Minang food. This incident also received attention from the Deputy Governor of DKI and politicians.

On the other hand, rendang padang gets a lot of attention from the world community. Not only because the process is processed for a long time. Curious about the reason why rendang padang is the best food in the world? Here's the explanation.

1. Have a rich taste

When the first mouthful of warm rice along with a slice of beef rendang, the taste glows in the mouth. There is a slight sweet, salty, various spice taste, and a faint nutty taste.

The richness of taste in rendang makes it memorable for those who are tasting it for the first time. This is also what makes rendang padang the most delicious food in the world alongside the masala dosa from India.

Illustration of rendang padang as the most delicious food in the world (iStockphoto)

2. It used to be a dish for the nobility

Based on its history, rendang padang has been known since the 15th century as a special dish for the nobility. Rendang is also classified as durable, it can even be stored at room temperature for days. This is also the reason why rendang can be taken on long trips.

3. Have a deep philosophy

Rendang Padang made from beef symbolizes Niniak Mamak. It has a philosophy which describes the tribal leader. Coconut milk symbolizes Cadak Pandai or intellectuals. While chili symbolizes the clergy. Lastly, spices are a symbol of the Minangkabau people.

4. Recognized as intangible cultural heritage

In 2013, rendang was named one of the foods included in the Intangible Heritage category by the Minister of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia. Three years before the coronation, rendang padang was included in CNN International's version of The Most Delicious Food.

5. Prepared from fresh ingredients

The advantage in an agrarian country is that more produce is still fresh and can be processed into delicious foods, such as rendang padang. In the process of cooking rendang, it takes more than six hours to produce a rich taste. Starting from preparing fresh ingredients until ready to serve and the texture of the meat is very soft.

That is the reason why rendang padang is the most delicious food in the world. Even the international chef who has visited Indonesia, Anthony Bourdain, praised the delicious taste of rendang.

To enjoy rendang padang, what side dish is often served at the same time? You can create a Padang-style dish, by complementing it with boiled cassava leaf vegetables and green chili sauce.