Our Taste of Home: Sate Padang

by Kylie Situmorang

One of my favorite dishes from my hometown would be Sate Padang. It originated from a city called Padang in Indonesia, but the dish can be enjoyed nationwide. The main ingredient is beef tongue, marinated in turmeric, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, shallots, garlic, candlenuts, cumin, and coriander, which infuses the meat with rich flavors. After marinating for several hours or overnight, the beef is skewered and grilled over hot charcoal, giving it a slightly charred, smoky taste. The creamy sauce from rice flour and coconut milk mixed with the remaining marinade adds a nice finish. This dish is traditionally served with rice cakes and garnished with fried shallots.

This dish is very special to me because of its delicious taste and the memories that come with it. Every weekend back in Jakarta, my family would order or eat Sate Padang. The smell of the chef grilling the satay and sauce creates an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness. These family gatherings were a cherished tradition, and Sate Padang was always at the heart of it. Sate Padang is not just a meal; it's a connection to my roots, a reminder of home, and a symbol of the love and unity within my family. Whether I'm cooking it in my college apartment or enjoying it at a local Indonesian restaurant, each bite brings me closer to my family and the memories we've created together.