Satay

Satay Also: Malay Satay, Sate
Peanut: Likely contains restriction
Vegetarian: Likely contains restriction
Gluten: Check with staff

Skewers of marinated chicken or beef grilled over charcoal, served with a rich peanut dipping sauce (kuah kacang), compressed rice (nasi impit), cucumber, and raw onion.

Allergen data cross-referenced against published allergen databases.

Your dietary restrictions

The full allergen breakdown is below. Select your restrictions to see a personalized safety status.

Full allergen breakdown

Ingredients

  • chicken or beef
  • satay marinade (lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, coriander)
  • coconut milk in marinade (Tree Nut)
  • kuah kacang peanut sauce (Peanut)
  • nasi impit
  • cucumber
  • raw onion

Hidden Ingredients

These ingredients are not typically listed on menus but are present in traditional preparations.

  • peanut sauce is the defining accompaniment — cannot be separated from the dish
  • coconut milk in the marinade
  • kecap manis or soy sauce in the marinade

Allergen Breakdown

Dairy-Free

Likely OK

No dairy in Malaysian satay.

Gluten-Free

Check with staff

Kecap manis or soy sauce in the marinade contains wheat. Verify with the stall.

Peanut-Free

Likely contains restriction

Peanut sauce (kuah kacang) is the defining accompaniment. Ground peanuts are the primary ingredient.

Tree Nut-Free

Check with staff

Coconut milk is used in the marinade.

Shellfish-Free

Likely OK

No shellfish in chicken or beef satay.

Egg-Free

Likely OK

No eggs in satay.

Fish-Free

Likely OK

No fish in chicken or beef satay.

Soy-Free

Check with staff

Soy sauce or kecap manis in the marinade. The peanut sauce sometimes contains soy.

Sesame-Free

Likely OK

No sesame in standard Malaysian satay.

Vegetarian

Likely contains restriction

Contains chicken or beef.

Key risk: Malaysian satay cannot be served without peanut sauce — it is the defining element. The kuah kacang is made from ground roasted peanuts, not a thin dipping sauce. It is thick, rich, and heavily peanut-forward. Someone with a peanut allergy must avoid satay entirely regardless of the protein.

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Important: Dish Scout is a reference guide, not medical advice. Traditional recipes vary by restaurant, region, and chef. Always verify ingredients with restaurant staff before ordering. When in doubt, don't eat it.