With a distinct taste, satay has become a popular dish around the world. If you’re considering what restaurant to order from, inquire about whether they have this delight on their menu. Consult the following guide to learn some information about the dish’s recipe, history, and some popular variations.

What Is It?

Satay, also called sate in some countries, is a skewered meat dish. The meat itself can be lamb, pork, fish, chicken, and many other options. 

The meat is skewered with bamboo sticks and cooked over charcoal, infusing it with a smoky taste. It’s commonly marinated with several spices and served with a sour or savory sauce depending on the variation.

What Is the History of Satay?

Satay is so popular that various regions call it a classic. It’s even a national dish in countries like Malaysia and Singapore. However, the birthplace of the meal is believed to be Java, a small region in Indonesia. 

Traders who migrated to the area in search of spices popularized the skewered approach to cooking meat, and throughout the following decades, many variations of this beloved dish would develop. 

What Are Some Variations?

Satay has made its way around the globe, taking on different flavors and styles. For example, in Indonesia, the dish is commonly served with rice cakes as well as kecap manis, the national condiment. In Malaysia, chicken is the most popular meat choice for satay dishes and can be served alongside a helping of noodles or roti canai, a Malaysian flatbread.

The Thailand variation is arguably the most popular, thanks to the spread of Thai restaurants throughout the Western world. The marinade can deliver a punchy, distinct taste due to a combination of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, dark soy sauce, and ginger. It’s usually served with the classic Thai peanut sauce.

When you’re looking for a restaurant to deliver a classic serving of satay, choose Mamasan’s in Rochester, NY. Since 1984, they’ve offered a variety of delicious lunch and dinner options. By combining flavors from Thailand, Vietnam, and other countries, they provide an exotic combination of flavors anyone should try. To see what their menu offers, visit them online or call (585) 461-3290.