SS1855: SEI- TASTY RENDANG: THE FUTURE OF PLANT- BASED HERITAGE FOOD

Siti Hajar Asiah Binti Khair Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM ), Cawangan Terengganu Kampus Dungun

Sei-Tasty Rendang, also known as Rendang Seitan, is a plant-based reinterpretation of traditional Malay rendang. This version was developed to offer a healthier, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly alternative to meat-based dishes. It uses seitan, a wheat-based protein made from flour and water. Seitan has a chewy, fibrous, meat-like texture that absorbs flavors extremely well. The product features cubed and seasoned seitan that is twisted, steamed, and then slow-cooked. A rich blend of coconut milk, ‘kerisik’, lemongrass, turmeric leaf, kaffir lime leaves, dried chili paste, and traditional aromatic spices forms the sauce. This produces a creamy, flavorful, and authentic-tasting rendang that maintains its signature dark brown color. Sei-Tasty Rendang is packaged in a 200-gram retort foil bag. It is convenient, shelf-stable, and easy to reheat, making it suitable for busy consumers who want quick yet wholesome meal options. Its uniqueness lies in introducing seitan into Malay cuisine, something rarely practiced, while retaining the classic taste profile of traditional rendang. A sensory evaluation comparing three variations showed that the control sample achieved the highest acceptability. This result proves that the product can appeal to a wide range of consumers. With its realistic texture, strong flavour absorption, and affordable production cost, Sei-Tasty Rendang has high commercialization potential. It targets vegetarians, flexitarians, health-focused individuals, environmentally conscious consumers, and those seeking culturally authentic Malaysian plant-based dishes. Overall, this product stands out as a sustainable, flavour-rich, and culturally meaningful meat alternative. It aligns with the growing demand for plant-based options in Malaysia.