The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Beef Rendang

Beef rendang the rich and flavorful Indonesian curry is a dish that begs to be served with a variety of complementary sides. The complex mix of spices and long simmering process gives rendang its melt-in-your-mouth texture and concentrated flavor. Figuring out what to serve alongside it can seem daunting. You’ll want sides that add color and brightness, provide a textural contrast, or double down on the big, bold flavors.

In this article, we’ll explore 17 of the most delicious options for side dishes to serve with beef rendang From classics like coconut rice to fresh veggie stir fries, these pairings will perfectly round out your rendang meal

Keep It Simple with Rice or Potatoes

Rice and potatoes are classic rendang accompaniments for good reason – their mild flavor and starchy texture perfectly soaks up the rendang gravy For the simplest option, go with plain steamed jasmine or basmati rice The light, fluffy grains won’t compete with the rendang.

For a twist, try coconut rice. Cooking the rice in a mixture of coconut milk and water gives it a subtle tropical essence that pairs beautifully with the curry. Finish it with toasted coconut flakes for added crunch.

Mashed or roasted potatoes are also excellent rendang sides. Their creaminess provides the ideal contrast to the hearty chunks of beef. Infuse your mashed potatoes with garlic, cilantro, and other herbs for extra dimension.

Brighten Things Up with a Salad

The rich decadence of beef rendang calls for some brightness and freshness on the side. A crisp, acidic salad adds just the right amount of contrast.

For a super simple salad, thinly slice cucumbers and toss with a vinaigrette of rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar. The cool crunch of the cukes cuts through the rendang’s richness.

If you want something more substantial, go for a Chinese chicken salad. Shredded napa cabbage, carrots, chicken, cilantro, and crispy wonton strips get tossed in a zingy dressing with ginger and sesame. It’s filling enough to be a light meal itself.

Add Veggies for Color and Texture

Vibrant, crunchy vegetable sides are a rendang must-have. They provide texture, flavor, and nutrition to balance out the hearty curry.

For an easy veggie dish, saute garlic, lemon, and red pepper flakes in olive oil and toss with roughly chopped kale. The kale wilts down for a tender, flavored side without excess work.

Another excellent veggie pairing is stir fried green beans. Blanch the beans briefly to maintain their snap, then stir fry with garlic, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for an addictively delicious side.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your veggie pairings either. Okra, eggplant, brussels sprouts, and beyond, are all fair game.

Satisfy Your Starch Craving with Potatoes or Pasta

Sometimes you need a little extra starch alongside your beef rendang. Potatoes and pasta make excellent substantial sides.

For a comforting rendang accompaniment, go with homemade mashed potatoes. Boil and mash russet potatoes with butter, whole milk, sour cream, and chopped garlic scapes. Finish them with freshly grated nutmeg.

Soaking up every last bit of rendang sauce is even better with a tangle of fresh egg noodles. Boil them briefly till just cooked through and toss with sesame oil. Their pleasant chew provides the perfect textural contrast.

Complement the Flavors with Spicy Sambal

No rendang meal is complete without sambal, the iconic Indonesian chili sauce. The spicy condiment adds another layer of flavor. There are countless sambal varieties, but a basic one calls for rehydrated chilies, garlic, shallots, tamarind, and salt blended to your desired consistency. Spoon it over your beef rendang or use it as a dip for side dishes.

If you want to skip making your own, store-bought sambal oelek (made from just chilies and vinegar) also does the trick. Just be sure to adjust the heat level to your tastes.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Tropical Desserts

You’ve made it through the rich, savory rendang, so reward yourself with something sweet and refreshing for dessert. Light, fruity desserts with tropical flavors complement the meal perfectly.

Cool down with a scoop of homemade mango sorbet. Blend ripe mangoes with simple syrup and lime juice, then freeze the mixture in your ice cream maker. Garnish with flakes of unsweetened coconut.

Or make an airy, citrusy lemongrass panna cotta. Infuse cream with lemongrass and kaffir lime, then gel it with agar. Top with a drizzle of passionfruit puree. It’s the ideal dessert after warming beef rendang.

Sample Menu Ideas

Here are a few menu ideas to give you inspiration on putting together a delicious beef rendang meal:

• Beef rendang with coconut rice, sauteed kale with garlic and lemon, and mango sorbet for dessert
• Beef rendang with Chinese chicken salad, and lemongrass panna cotta
• Beef rendang with cucumber salad, stir fried green beans, and sambal on the side
• Beef rendang with homemade mashed potatoes, sauteed spinach, and fresh tropical fruit

The possibilities for incredible beef rendang meals are endless. With the right combination of sides and starters balancing out the hearty curry, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable dining experience. So pick out one or more of these fantastic rendang pairings and get ready to impress your guests.