It will come as no surprise that Malaysia is considered a true gourmet’s delight. The country has a diverse food culture and takes inspiration from Malay, Chinese, Indian and Thai food. Given such a diverse food culture, Malaysia will provide a sensational foods experience that will make your tongue tap. First of all, it is important to note that this list is suitable for both a frequent traveler and for a beginner, who has decided to try himself in Malaysia for the first time, there are several Malaysian dishes that are mandatory for a compulsory purchase. Malaysian cuisine varies from tasty snack food to aromatic rice dishes and thus there is something for everyone.
If you are thinking about where your next culinary experience should be, do not ignore Malaysia Visa to make your trip easier. Ready to dive in? Below are Malaysia’s six most popular local dishes that one must try all of which represent Malaysia’s rich food culture!
Here are the Top 6 Malaysian Foods Every Food Lover Should Try
1. Nasi Lemak – Malaysia’s National Dish
Nasi Lemak is the staple food of the Malaysian population. This all-time favourite dish consists of coconut rice served with a sambal (chilli paste), fried anchovies, and a boiled egg. This is normally accompanied by thin pieces of cucumber to help cut on the very intense flavors. If you are a breakfast person or you prefer a snack, then Nasi Lemak is something you should not miss.
Pro tip: Nasi Lemak is usually served with a cup of teh tarik (sweet, frothy tea), so it is a great meal for breakfast.
2. Char Kway Teow – Stir-fried Noodles
Char Kway Teow is one of the most famous hawker dishes in Malaysia and is most famous in Penang. This flat rice noodle stir fry dish includes stir-fried prawn, egg, bean sprout and Chinese sausage with soy sauce with a slight hint of chili. This is a delicious dish for which the smoky wok aroma is a wonderful bonus.
Char Kway Teow is usually prepared on the street side and this just makes it even more enjoyable to eat!
3. Roti Canai – A Flaky Delight
Roti Canai is an Indian-inspired paratha that turns crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. People typically enjoy it with dhal (lentil curry) or a hot, spicy meat curry for dipping. Whether eaten in the morning, afternoon, or evening, Roti Canai is easy to prepare and delicious. If you really want to push the boat out, then get your Roti Canai with sugar on the side and it is a really sweet treat.
Roti Canai is now a staple in all eateries in Malaysia and can be seen as a street food, café, restaurant, bistros, or even in the high end restaurants.
4. Laksa – A Spicy, Creamy Soup
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup which is versatile and may be consumed in different forms throughout Malaysia. The two main kinds are Asam Laksa, which has tamarind soup and Curry Laksa which has milk in it, is thick and creamy because of coconut milk. Both types are very concentrated in taste and can include noodles, prawns or chicken. Laksa is one of those dishes that when you go sightseeing the whole day and you come back, you eat the dish and it warms your tummy and soul. And don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime to finish it off.
5. Satay – Grilled Skewers of Goodness
Satay is in fact is actually the Malaysian take on barbecued meat on sticks. This is made by soaking the meat, usually chicken, beef or lamb in spices and then grilling it over hot charcoal before it is accompanied by a delicious peanut relish. Satay is common in the local area because of the smoke flavor of the meat and the peanut sauce that contains sweetness and spiciness.
People enjoy this dish as a snack or appetizer, but it can also be served as part of a meal. Satay stalls are found throughout Malaysia, with each stall preparing the Malaysian satay in its own unique way.
6. Hainanese Chicken Rice – Simple yet Flavorful
What could be more apparent than to have Hainanese chicken rice being a dish? But wait, there’s so much flavor in it! The dish features steamed chicken and rice cooked in chicken fat, served with chili sauce and ginger paste. It is well appreciated for being less spicy, making it perfect for those avoiding hot foods but still craving flavor.
No matter you are in a posh restaurant or a food court, Malaysians cannot do without Hainanese Chicken Rice.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Malaysian foods is indeed diverse and colorful being a true example of the country’s multiculturalism. From the rich spicy coconut milk base of the Laksa to the crispy flat bread of the Roti Canai each dish has a history behind it. From street markets to food courts in Kuala Lumpur, these top 6 Malaysian foods should not be missed. The delicious and rich foods in Malaysia make it possible to find every type of food – spicy, sweet or even savory.
Interested in Malaysia’s delicious dishes? Do not forget to consider the Malaysia Visa options if you want your travel to be more comfortable. Taste these delicious meals and set your palate on a journey you’ll definitely want to take again and again!