Malaysia's national dish, Nasi Lemak, is a fragrant rice meal cooked in coconut milk and served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and boiled egg. Some variations add fried chicken or curry to enhance the flavor.
Nov 13, 2024
Laksa
A spicy noodle soup with Peranakan origins, Laksa combines rice noodles or vermicelli with coconut curry or sour asam broth. This beloved dish is especially popular in Penang and Sarawak, with each region adding its own twist.
Rendang
Originally from Indonesia but hugely popular in Malaysia, Rendang is a rich, slow-cooked beef dish with spices and coconut milk, known for its depth of flavor and tender meat.
Satay
A crowd favorite, these skewers of grilled, marinated meat are typically served with peanut sauce, rice cakes, and a side of cucumber and onions.
Char Kway Teow
Flat rice noodles stir-fried with prawns, eggs, and bean sprouts in a smoky soy sauce, Char Kway Teow is a Penang specialty with a slightly charred taste that’s unforgettable.
Hainanese Chicken Rice
Poached chicken served over rice cooked in chicken broth, this dish is a local adaptation of a Hainanese favorite. It’s often paired with chili sauce and garlic-ginger paste.
Roti Canai
A flaky, buttery flatbread influenced by Indian cuisine, Roti Canai is often served with dhal (lentil curry) or other savory curries and makes for a perfect breakfast or snack.
Cendol
This cooling dessert features shaved ice topped with coconut milk, green jelly noodles, red beans, and palm sugar syrup. It’s a must-try treat in Malaysia’s tropical climate.
Kuih
These colorful, bite-sized snacks, known as kuih, are often made from rice flour, coconut milk, and pandan. They come in a variety of shapes and flavors and are a favorite among locals.
Mee Goreng Mamak
Stir-fried noodles with a mix of spices, soy sauce, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood, Mee Goreng Mamak is a street food staple with bold flavors.