Rendang is a spicy meat dish originating from Indonesia,
especially the ethnic Minangkabau people and is now generally served throughout
the country. As one of the special foods of Minangkabau culture, rendang served
at ceremonial events and to honor the guests. Traditionally, rendang is
prepared by the Minangkabau community during festive events such as traditional
ceremonies, weddings and Hari Raya (Eid al-Fitr).
Rendang is respected in Minangkabau culture as a
manifestation of the philosophy of deliberation, discussion, and consultation
with elders. It has been claimed that the four main ingredients represent the
Minangkabau community as a whole:
Meat (dagiang) symbolizes Niniak Mamak, traditional clan
leaders such as datuk, nobles, and honorable elders.
Coconut milk (karambia) symbolizes Clever Cadiak,
intellectuals, teachers, poets, and writers.
Chili (lado) symbolizes Alim Ulama, ulama, ulama, and
religious leaders. The heat of chili symbolizes Sharia.
The mixture of spices (pemasak) symbolizes the rest of the
Minangkabau community.
In the Minangkabau tradition, rendang is a dish that is
served on special occasions in traditional Minang ceremonies, from birth
ceremonies to circumcision, marriage, Qur’an recitals, and religious holidays
such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.