There are countless reasons why everyone should travel to Malaysia—and this includes its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. From aromatic spices to mouth-watering street food, the country offers a tantalising array of dishes that reflect its rich heritage.
If you’re planning to hop on a private car from Singapore to JB and embark on a gastronomic journey, here are some must-try foods that should be on your bucket list.
1. Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is arguably Malaysia’s most iconic dish, loved by locals and visitors alike. This fragrant rice dish is cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, giving it a distinct aroma and flavour.
Typically served with a range of accompaniments such as sambal (spicy chilli paste), fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber slices, and a boiled or fried egg, Nasi Lemak offers a symphony of flavours and textures in every bite.
2. Roti Canai
Roti Canai is a type of Indian-influenced flatbread that has become a staple in Malaysian cuisine. Made from dough stretched and folded repeatedly to create layers, the result is a crispy yet fluffy bread that pairs perfectly with various curries and dhal.
While the classic Roti Canai is delicious on its own, it’s often served with a side of curry sauce for dipping or accompanied by fillings such as egg, banana, or even cheese for a unique twist.
3. Char Kway Teow
Char Kway Teow is a beloved street food dish consisting of flat rice noodles stir-fried with eggs, shrimp, cockles, Chinese lap cheong (sausage), bean sprouts, and chives in a flavourful soy sauce base.
The hallmark of a great Char Kway Teow is “wok hei,” the smoky and charred flavour imparted by cooking over high heat in a well-seasoned wok. It’s this caramelisation that elevates the dish to new heights of deliciousness.
4. Satay
Satay is a quintessential Malaysian dish featuring marinated and skewered meat grilled over charcoal. The meat is often served with peanut sauce, cucumber slices, and ketupat (compressed rice cakes).
Whether enjoyed as a quick snack from a street vendor or as part of a hearty meal, Satay embodies the essence of Malaysian street food culture with its bold flavours and aromatic spices.
5. Laksa
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup that comes in various regional variations across Malaysia, each with its own unique ingredients and flavours. The two most popular types are Asam Laksa and Curry Laksa.
Hailing from the northern state of Penang, Asam Laksa features a tangy and sour broth made from tamarind, fish, and aromatic herbs, served with thick rice noodles and a garnish of shredded mackerel, cucumber, onions, and mint leaves.
On the other hand, Curry Laksa boasts a rich and creamy coconut milk-based broth infused with spices like lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric, along with toppings such as tofu puffs, shrimp, and chicken.
6. Rendang
Rendang is a sumptuous Indonesian-influenced dish that has become a staple of Malaysian cuisine. It features tender chunks of meat (usually beef) slow-cooked in a fragrant blend of coconut milk and spices until it reaches melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
What sets Rendang apart is its complex spice paste, which typically includes ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, ginger, garlic, shallots, chilli, and a variety of aromatic spices. The result is a dish that’s rich, aromatic, and bursting with flavour.
7. Durian
No culinary journey through Malaysia would be complete without sampling Durian, the infamous “King of Fruits.” Known for its divisive aroma and creamy texture, Durian is beloved by some and reviled by others.
There are numerous varieties of Durian, each with its own unique flavour profile and texture. From the sweet and custardy Musang King to the more pungent and bitter Red Prawn, there’s a Durian variety to suit every palate.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its people, offering a tantalising array of flavours, textures, and aromas to delight the senses. From street food classics like Nasi Lemak and Satay to hearty favourites like Rendang and Laksa, every dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and culinary craftsmanship. So, when you find yourself in Malaysia, be sure to embark on a gastronomic adventure and savour the many delights that this food-loving nation has to offer.
Interested in trying out these delectable dishes? Hire a cheap private car to JB, Malacca, and more with SGMYTRIPS to kickstart your gastronomic journey through the country!
