Satay is a kind of grilled meat dish served on skewers. It developed with Indonesian, Thai and Malaysian influences. However, it actually originated in Java, the Indonesian island. It spread to other Southeast Asian countries that were in proximity because of the travel and trade ties that connected these places. In Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, East Timor and Brunei, satay has evolved with local ingredients and cooking styles. Satay was first invented by street vendors in Java, inspired by the Indian kebab which was born during the Mughal Empire. The dish became popular in Indonesia in the early 19th century when Muslim Indian and Arab traders traded textiles for spices. It is spelled ‘sate’ in Indonesia and is available everywhere, from street vendors to upscale restaurants. Considered the national dish of Indonesia, satay is also popular in the Netherlands since Indonesia was a former Dutch colony. It may be prepared with beef, pork, mutton, chicken, fish or tofu.