A recently resurfaced video of British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay tasting authentic rendang in West Sumatra has gone viral on social media, reigniting pride among Indonesian viewers.
On Monday (8 September 2025), the TikTok account @natgeotv posted a flashback clip from the programme Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, showing the renowned chef sampling an array of traditional Minangkabau dishes, including the celebrated rendang.
In the episode, originally filmed during Ramsay’s visit to Indonesia, the chef travelled to Istano Basa Pagaruyung in West Sumatra to experience bajamba, a traditional communal dining practice of the Minangkabau people.
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Dressed in traditional black attire and headgear, Ramsay joined Indonesian culinary expert William Wongso to savour a series of local dishes.
“Every 30 seconds you keep giving me food. So I’m very confused,” Ramsay said jokingly as plate after plate arrived before him.
Exploring the Richness of Minangkabau Cuisine
Before reaching the highly anticipated rendang, Ramsay sampled various dishes, beginning with perkedel (potato patties), grated coconut dishes, sticky rice, and cassava leaves.
Some textures initially surprised him, with Ramsay remarking that one of the sticky rice dishes had “a very strange texture.” He also tasted eel, while Wongso explained the heavy use of spices and herbs typical of Minangkabau cooking.
Rendang, however, was the dish Ramsay had been most eager to try. Known internationally as one of Indonesia’s most iconic dishes, rendang is slow-cooked beef simmered in coconut milk and spices until it becomes tender and caramelised.
As the plate of rendang was served, Ramsay immediately praised its aroma, calling it “delicious” even before taking a bite. Upon tasting it, his reaction was one of admiration.
“It’s like a perfect marriage between stew and curry. It’s absolutely captivating,” Ramsay said, describing the dish as rich, deep, and bursting with flavour.
Chef Wongso added context, explaining that rendang is considered a treasured local delicacy, traditionally served during important occasions.
A Viral Moment That Stirred Pride
The reposted video quickly drew thousands of views and comments, with many Indonesian netizens expressing pride that a world-renowned chef had come to their homeland to appreciate their cuisine at its source. Some were equally delighted to see Ramsay respecting local customs by sitting cross-legged and eating with his hands, a traditional way of dining in West Sumatra.
“Just sitting cross-legged and eating with his hands is already cool,” wrote one commenter. Others simply celebrated the spotlight on their national dish, with one remarking: “Rendang with Padang rice is truly amazing.”
The episode highlights the depth of Indonesia’s culinary traditions and how they continue to gain international recognition.
Gordon Ramsay Uncharted is now streaming on @DisneyPlus and @hulu.
