Deliciously Authentic Southeast Asian Satay Recipe: A Flavorful Culinary Adventure!

Satay from Southeast Asian cuisines

Satay is a tasty dish that hails from Southeast Asia. It’s super popular in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. Picture this: skewers of marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or sometimes even tofu) grilled to perfection and served with a delicious, slightly spicy peanut sauce. The meat gets all juicy and flavorful from the marinade, and the sauce adds this creamy, nutty goodness that makes it so yummy.

Satay snacks, or Satay Meals

People often munch on it as a snack or have it as part of a meal with rice or veggies. So, yeah, it’s like this flavor-packed gem that comes from those awesome Southeast Asian cuisines!

How to make chicken satay

Set aside

1 kg (or about 2 lbs) of boneless and skinless chicken thigh and leg meat, cut into small cubes.
Bamboo skewers (soaked in cold water for 2 hours)
1 cucumber (cut into small pieces)
1 small onion (quartered)
oil (for basting)

Marinade Sauce

3 tablespoons oil
2 stalks lemongrass (white parts only)
2 cloves garlic (peeled)
6 small shallots or pearl onions (peeled)
2 teaspoons turmeric powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 tablespoon salt or more to taste
2 tablespoons sugar or honey

Do like this

Blend all the Marinade ingredients in a food processor. Add a little water if needed.
Combine the chicken and the Marinade together, and stir to mix well. Marinate the chicken for 6 hours in the fridge, or best overnight. When ready, thread 3-4 pieces of the chicken meat onto the bamboo skewers.
Grill the chicken satay skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until the meat is fully cooked, and the surface is nicely charred, on both sides. Baste and brush with some oil while grilling. Serve hot with peanut sauce, fresh cucumber pieces, and onions.

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Southeast Asian cuisines offer a variety of meat options

Each variation reflects the diverse culinary traditions within Southeast Asia, offering a range of tastes to explore!

Here are a few authentic variations:

Beef Satay: This version often uses cuts like sirloin or flank steak. The beef gets marinated in a mix of spices and sometimes includes lemongrass, giving it a distinct flavor.
Pork Satay: In some regions, pork is a popular choice. The marinade might have a sweet-savory blend with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and palm sugar.
Lamb or Goat Satay: These meats bring a unique, slightly gamey flavor. The marinade could include a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric for a rich taste.
Seafood Satay: Though not as common as other meats, seafood like shrimp or fish can be used for satay. The marinade might feature a lighter touch, allowing the natural flavors of the seafood to shine through.

Suggested Read: Peanut Sauce Recipe

Kuala Lumpur: travel and home

Satay stands as one of Kuala Lumpur‘s must-have dishes, but if you can’t be there in person, this recipe brings a slice of Southeast Asia to your kitchen. It’s the next best thing to being on holiday, allowing you to savor the authentic flavors and aromas right from home.