Rendang on Today's Google Doodle, Here's the History of the World's Best Food

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - If you check out Google, you'll see that rendang is the theme of today’s Google Doodle, August 21, 2024. Rendang is one of Indonesia's traditional delicacies. In fact, it's so good that it is included on CNN’s 2011 “World’s Most Delicious Food”.

However, Google Doodle featuring rendang isn't limited to Indonesia. People in Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, and the UK can also see it.

Celebrating rendang on today’s Google Doodle, let’s delve into its history and some interesting facts about this worldwide delicacy.

History of Rendang

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian meat-based food, cooked in coconut milk and various types of spices, that originates from West Sumatra. While most people are familiar with the term “rendang”, the native Minangkabau people actually call it randang.

The word randang derives from marandang, which means ‘to slowly cook coconut milk until dry’. Yes, this dish requires a long process of cooking until the coconut milk, one of the ingredients, dries out, as explained in the book Rendang Nan Enak Itu.

The precise origin of rendang is uncertain, as there is a lack of written evidence. Nevertheless, it is certain that rendang has been a part of the Minangkabau people's culinary tradition for an extended period of time.

In particular, still referring to Rendang Nan Enak Itu, a note from a Dutchman, Colonel Stuers, from 1827, mentioned of a blackened and charred food. This description aligns with the characteristics of rendang, which is cooked until dry.

Meanwhile, Gusti Anan, a historian from Andalas University in Padang, believes that rendang emerged when Minangkabau people frequently traveled to Singapore through the Strait of Malacca, Tempo reported on November 18, 2022.

The long journey traversing waterways required them to prepare food that could last a long time. Rendang was a perfect choice, and this condition was believed to trigger the creation of rendang.

Furthermore, the history of rendang is closely intertwined with the arrival of Arabs and Indians on the west coast of Sumatra. It is believed that in the 14th century, many Indians settled in the Minang region, introducing herbs and spices to the local cuisine.

Interesting Facts about Rendang

Apparently, Google featuring rendang as today's doodle is because on this day, the West Sumatra governor received a trophy from the Indonesian Record Museum for the biggest rendang online cooking event of all time.

Here’s other interesting facts that you might not know about rendang:

1. Can be Found in Other SEA Countries

While the origin of rendang can be a sensitive topic for Indonesians and Malaysians, the dish can also be found in the neighboring country, as well as in Singapore.

Modifications to its key ingredients have also occurred to suit local palates. For example, according to Google Doodle, the Philippines uses native spice mixed with palapa and adds muscovado sugar.

2. Served to Nobles

Did you know that rendang was once associated as food of the nobles? Initially, this dish was usually only reserved for the nobility, especially during long trips. Not to mention, the main ingredients of rendang are expensive, making it a food of nobles.

3. A Long-lasting Dish

Rendang can last three to four weeks at room temperature. In fact, it can last up to three months if the cooking and storage process is done right, thanks to the spices that contain natural preservatives.

4. A Philosophical Food

The ingredients used in the preparation of rendang actually have symbolic meanings. Tempo informed that the meat, which constitutes the primary ingredient, symbolizes traditional figures. The coconut milk, on the other hand, symbolizes the intellectuals, while the spices collectively represent the entire Minangkabau community.

Editor's Choice: 8 Unique Traditional Eid al-Adha Dishes in Indonesia, from Rendang to Curry

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