Tean’s Gourmet or Ayam are the rendang pastes most UK shoppers can find, and a reliable shortcut given how long the dish takes to cook from scratch. Rendang paste is a spiced base of chilli, shallot, garlic, galangal and lemongrass, simmered with coconut milk into a thick, dry curry.
What to check on the label
Rendang paste vs Thai curry paste
| Type | Flavour base | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Rendang paste | Galangal, lemongrass, dry spices | Long-simmered Malaysian and Indonesian curries |
| Thai curry paste | Fresh herbs, more liquid-forward | Quicker Thai curries |
FAQ
How long does rendang take to cook once the paste is fried?
Around 2 to 2.5 hours of slow simmering, as in our beef rendang recipe, to reduce the sauce properly.
Can I use rendang paste for chicken instead of beef?
Yes, though it will need a shorter cooking time than a tougher cut of beef.
Read next
Shop this
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
- Rendang paste. A shortcut spice paste for the base of the curry.