KBRN, Jakarta: Originating from Minangkabau, West Sumatra, rendang has gained recognition worldwide. This slow-cooked beef dish, rich in coconut milk and spices, has even made its way to Norway.

One of the key figures behind rendang’s presence in Norway is Emmy Jorgensen, a West Sumatran entrepreneur. Since 1991, she has been importing and promoting Indonesian products, including rendang spices, through her company Scanesia.

Over the years, her efforts have successfully introduced rendang spices to Norwegian supermarkets. Even sushi restaurants in Norway have started using rendang as part of their menu.

Named the world’s most delicious food by CNN’s World’s 50 Best Foods in 2017, rendang has been promoted in Norway for years. However, Emmy had to adjust the recipe to suit Norwegian tastes, as they initially found it too spicy.

After multiple adjustments, Norwegians and other international customers have grown to love the dish. Emmy believes that with continuous promotion, rendang can achieve global recognition.

"I still have a long journey ahead to promote rendang across Norway," Emmy said in a recent dialogue with RRI Voice of Indonesia. She dreams of making rendang as popular worldwide as sushi, kimchi, and pizza.

This year, she plans to expand into other Scandinavian countries. She also hopes that Indonesian pavilions at international exhibitions will actively promote rendang to increase its global popularity.