Sate Kajang
Kajang Style Satay
Sate Kajang is a famous Malaysian variation of satay, characterized by its larger, more substantial pieces of meat and a rich, flavorful marinade. This recipe focuses on the traditional Kajang style, known for its robust taste and satisfying texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 800 g Beef (sirloin or tenderloin recommended)
- 200 g Satay Marinade Mix (store-bought or homemade)(Ensure it's a good quality, flavorful blend. If making your own, it typically includes ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, chili, and spices.)
- 400 ml Peanut Sauce (chunky style)(A thick, chunky peanut sauce is traditional for Sate Kajang. It should be warmed before serving.)
- 1 medium Cucumber
- 1 medium Red Onion
- 1 package Nasi Impit (compressed rice cakes)(These are essential for authentic Sate Kajang.)
- 30-40 pieces Bamboo Skewers
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the beef: Cut the beef into uniform cubes, approximately 2.5 to 3 cm (about 1 inch) in size. This larger size is characteristic of Sate Kajang. Place the beef cubes in a large bowl.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Marinate the beef: Add the satay marinade mix to the beef cubes. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
⏱️ 3 hours (minimum) - 3
Assemble the satay: Remove the marinated beef from the refrigerator. Thread 3-4 pieces of beef onto each soaked bamboo skewer, ensuring they are packed relatively closely but not so tight that they won't cook evenly. Discard any excess marinade.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 4
Prepare the grill: Preheat your charcoal grill to medium-high heat. The coals should be covered in a fine layer of gray ash. If using a gas grill, preheat to around 200-220°C (400-425°F).
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Grill the satay: Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill for approximately 7-10 minutes per side, turning regularly, until the beef is cooked through and nicely charred on all sides. The meat should be tender and juicy inside, with a slightly smoky, caramelized exterior. Avoid overcooking to keep the beef moist.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 6
Serve: Arrange the grilled Sate Kajang on a platter. Serve immediately with warm, chunky peanut sauce, prepared nasi impit, and fresh cucumber and red onion pieces on the side. The combination of the savory satay, rich sauce, and refreshing accompaniments is key to the Sate Kajang experience.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The larger size of the beef pieces (around 2.5-3 cm) is a defining characteristic of Sate Kajang, ensuring a more substantial and satisfying bite.
- ✓Marinating the beef for a longer period (overnight is ideal) will significantly enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- ✓Ensure your grill is hot before placing the satay on it to achieve a good sear and prevent sticking.
- ✓A truly authentic Sate Kajang is served with a thick, chunky peanut sauce and compressed rice cakes (nasi impit).
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast, cut into similar sized pieces. Adjust marinating and grilling times accordingly (chicken cooks faster).
- Mutton/Lamb: Use lamb shoulder or leg, cut into cubes. Mutton may require a slightly longer marinating time and careful grilling to ensure tenderness.