Are you planning to cook up a delicious beef rendang for your next meal?
This Indonesian dish is known for its rich and aromatic flavors, but what about the side dishes? Choosing the right accompaniments can make all the difference in creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best sides to serve with beef rendang, from classic steamed rice to tangy cucumber salads and more.
So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect pairings for this mouthwatering dish.
What Sides Go With Beef Rendang?
When it comes to choosing the perfect sides to serve with beef rendang, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some of the best dishes to complement this flavorful and aromatic dish:
1. Steamed Rice: This classic side dish is a must-have when serving beef rendang. Whether you opt for plain or coconut jasmine rice, it’s the perfect accompaniment to soak up all the delicious flavors of the curry.
2. Cucumber Salad: For a fresh and tangy side dish, try serving beef rendang with a cucumber salad. Simply combine sliced cucumbers with crushed peanuts, chopped chili (optional), lemon juice, sugar, and soy sauce for a refreshing and crunchy accompaniment.
3. Sauteed Spinach: If you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish, sauteed spinach is a great option. Simply cook spinach in a pan with garlic and olive oil until wilted, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Eggplants in Sambal: For an Indonesian twist on your side dishes, try serving beef rendang with eggplants in sambal. This spicy and savory dish is made by cooking eggplants in a chili-based sauce until tender.
5. Creamy Apple Slaw: For some Asian fusion, pair your beef rendang with a creamy apple slaw. This refreshing side dish is made by combining shredded cabbage, grated apple, mayonnaise, and lemon juice for a sweet and tangy flavor.
6. Lemongrass and Kaffir Lime Mousse: For a unique and flavorful dessert option, try serving lemongrass and kaffir lime mousse alongside your beef rendang. This light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end your meal on a high note.
Classic Rice Pairings For Beef Rendang
When it comes to serving beef rendang, rice is an essential side dish. Here are some classic rice pairings to consider:
1. Coconut Rice: This fragrant and creamy rice is the perfect accompaniment to beef rendang. Simply cook jasmine rice with coconut milk and a pinch of salt for a delicious and aromatic side dish.
2. Nasi Lemak: This Malaysian rice dish is a popular pairing for beef rendang. It’s made by cooking rice in coconut milk and pandan leaves, then serving it with various toppings such as fried anchovies, peanuts, and sambal.
3. Lemang: This traditional Malaysian rice dish is made by cooking glutinous rice in bamboo tubes over an open flame. The result is a sticky and flavorful rice that pairs perfectly with beef rendang.
4. Steamed Broccoli: For a healthy and nutritious side dish, try serving steamed broccoli with your beef rendang. It’s a great way to add some green to your meal while still keeping it simple.
5. Stir-Fried Glass Noodles: If you’re looking for a more substantial side dish, stir-fried glass noodles are a great option. They’re quick and easy to make, and their mild flavor pairs well with the bold flavors of beef rendang.
6. Sautéed Potatoes with Garlic: For a hearty and comforting side dish, try sautéing potatoes with garlic and herbs. The crispy potatoes and fragrant garlic will complement the rich flavors of the beef rendang perfectly.
Fresh And Tangy Salads To Complement The Rich Flavors
If you’re looking for a salad to complement the rich and bold flavors of beef rendang, there are a few options that can add a fresh and tangy touch to your meal. Here are some ideas:
1. Pineapple Salad: This salad is a popular accompaniment to beef rendang in Malaysia. It combines fresh pineapple chunks with sliced shallots, chopped chili, and a dressing made with lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. The sweetness of the pineapple balances out the spiciness of the curry, while the tangy dressing adds a refreshing touch.
2. Tomato and Onion Salad: For a simple yet flavorful side dish, try serving sliced tomatoes and onions with a dressing made of lime juice, salt, and pepper. This salad is a great way to add some acidity to your meal and cut through the richness of the beef rendang.
3. Green Papaya Salad: This Thai-inspired salad is made with shredded green papaya, sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped peanuts, and a dressing made with lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar. The crunchy texture of the papaya and peanuts adds a nice contrast to the tender beef, while the tangy dressing ties everything together.
4. Watermelon Salad: For a refreshing and summery side dish, try serving watermelon cubes with crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint leaves, and a dressing made with lime juice and honey. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs well with the spiciness of the beef rendang, while the salty feta cheese adds a nice savory touch.
5. Carrot and Cucumber Salad: This simple salad is made by slicing carrots and cucumbers into thin strips and tossing them with a dressing made of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. The crunchy texture of the vegetables adds some freshness to your meal, while the Asian-inspired dressing complements the flavors of the beef rendang.
Vegetable Side Dishes To Add Color And Nutrition
If you want to add some color and nutrition to your meal, consider serving some vegetable side dishes alongside your beef rendang. Here are some options to consider:
1. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Bok choy is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and fiber. Stir-fry it with garlic and ginger for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
2. Roasted Cauliflower: Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delicious nutty flavor. It’s also packed with fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
3. Kale Salad: Kale is a nutrient-dense superfood that’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. Toss it with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and salt for a refreshing and healthy side dish.
4. Green Beans with Almonds: Green beans are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and folate. Toss them with toasted almonds for added crunch and flavor.
5. Carrot Salad: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Shred them and toss them with a dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy side dish.
Adding some vegetable side dishes to your meal not only adds nutrition but also adds variety to your plate. Try out these options and find your favorite combination!
Bread And Noodle Options For A Heartier Meal
If you’re looking to serve a heartier meal with your beef rendang, there are some bread and noodle options that will make for a satisfying and filling meal. Here are some of the best options:
1. Roti Canai: This flaky and buttery Malaysian flatbread is the perfect accompaniment to beef rendang. It’s great for soaking up all the delicious curry sauce, and adds a nice texture to your meal.
2. Nasi Lemak: This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is a popular accompaniment to beef rendang in Malaysia. It’s made by cooking rice with coconut milk and pandan leaves, and is often served with anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and sambal.
3. Stir-Fried Glass Noodles: For a lighter noodle option, try serving beef rendang with stir-fried glass noodles. These thin and transparent noodles have a delicate texture that pairs well with the bold flavors of the curry.
4. Sourdough Bread: If you’re looking for a bread option that’s a bit more substantial, try serving beef rendang with some crusty sourdough bread. The tangy flavor of the bread will complement the rich flavors of the curry.
5. Mashed Potatoes: For a Western twist on your side dishes, try serving beef rendang with some creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth texture of the potatoes will balance out the spiciness of the curry, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
By incorporating these bread and noodle options into your meal, you can create a heartier and more filling dish that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
Beverage Pairings To Enhance The Dining Experience
To truly enhance the dining experience when serving beef rendang, it’s important to consider the beverage pairings. While the classic rule of red wine with red meat holds true, there are other factors to keep in mind.
For those who prefer wine, a rich and bold Shiraz with dark fruity flavors is an excellent pairing with beef rendang. Alternatively, a crisp and cold white wine like chardonnay can complement chicken rendang. During warmer months, a cold lager or rice beer can also be a great accompaniment.
When it comes to pairing wine with food, it’s important to consider acidity, tannins, sweetness, and alcohol content. Congruent pairings, where the flavors complement each other, work well. For example, a high-acid Italian Chianti pairs well with spaghetti and tomato sauce. Tannins are primarily detected in red wine and can enhance bitterness and heat. Foods like cheese and meat work well with red wines high in tannins like Cabernet Sauvignon and Nebbiolo. Sweetness in wine helps balance spicy food, making an off-dry rosé a great pairing with Thai food. Salt generally pairs well with most wines, but be careful not to add too much salt compared to acid.
Ultimately, the perfect beverage pairing for beef rendang will depend on personal preference and taste. Experiment with different options to find the perfect pairing for your meal.