Satay Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿข
Add to dictionary

satay

[หˆsษ‘หteษช ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food dish

Satay is a dish of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meat, served with a sauce, usually peanut or soy-based. It is commonly found in Southeast Asian cuisines, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The dish is often accompanied by rice cakes or vegetables.

Synonyms

kebab, sate.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered chicken satay as an appetizer.
  • The restaurant specializes in authentic Indonesian satay.
  • She enjoyed the spicy peanut sauce with her satay.
  • Satay is a popular street food in many Asian countries.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Origins

  • The dish originated in Indonesia, where it has been made for centuries and is a popular street food.
  • Each region in Southeast Asia has its own unique twist on satay, using different meats and marinades.
  • Satay is often accompanied by a peanut sauce, which gives it a rich flavor that is beloved worldwide.

Cultural Significance

  • In Indonesia, satay is not just food; it's often part of celebrations and festive events.
  • In Malaysia, satay is commonly enjoyed at gatherings, highlighting its status as a communal dish.
  • The dish symbolizes hospitality and friendship in many cultures, often shared among family and friends.

Global Popularity

  • Satay has transcended its origins and can now be found in restaurants around the world, from food trucks to five-star venues.
  • In Western countries, it has become a popular appetizer at Asian restaurants, demonstrating its worldwide appeal.
  • Food festivals often feature satay as a star attraction, showcasing its culinary versatility.

Health Aspects

  • Grilled meat tends to be lower in fat compared to fried options, making satay a relatively healthier choice.
  • When incorporated with vegetables, it can be a balanced meal rich in protein and nutrients.
  • The peanut sauce, while tasty, adds calories, but also healthy fats and proteins.

Cooking Techniques

  • The traditional method of cooking satay involves marinating the meat to enhance flavors before grilling.
  • A charcoal grill is often preferred for cooking, as it adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
  • Alternative versions using tofu or seafood appeal to vegetarians and diversify the options available.

Origin of 'satay'

The word 'satay' originates from the Indonesian and Malay language, where it refers to skewered meat. The term has been adopted in various forms across different cultures in Southeast Asia. The concept of skewering meat for cooking dates back centuries, with different regions developing their own unique variations of dishes that fall under the satay category. In Indonesia, satay is often associated with special occasions and festivities, where it is grilled over charcoal to achieve a specific flavor. The dish has become a staple in many Southeast Asian countries, with each region adding its own flair in terms of ingredients and preparation methods, which contributes to the rich culinary diversity of the area.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,222, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.