Explore the Best Food in Malaysia — Embark On A Culinary Journey

01/02/2024
Best food in malaysia

If you're reading this, you're in for a treat, quite literally. Today, we're going to embark on a delicious journey through the heart of Malaysia, exploring the best food Malaysia has to offer. From street-side delights to time-honored traditional dishes, Malaysia's culinary scene is a treasure trove of flavours waiting to be discovered.

Malaysia: A Food Lover's Paradise

Before we dive into the mouthwatering details, let's take a moment to appreciate Malaysia's unique position in the world of cuisine.

Nestled in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences shaping its food landscape.

The result? A diverse and tantalizing array of dishes that will leave your taste buds singing. Here are the 10 best foods in Malaysia that you must try!

1. Nasi Lemak - Malaysia's National Treasure

Our culinary journey begins with the undisputed national dish of Malaysia - Nasi Lemak. This fragrant rice dish is the epitome of Malaysia's rich and flavorful food culture.

Nasi lemak | Best food in malaysia

Picture this: fluffy coconut rice served with a spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, toasted peanuts, hard-boiled or fried egg, and a refreshing cucumber garnish. It's a symphony of taste and textures that will leave you craving for more. It is definitely one of the best foods in Malaysia that you must try!

2. Sarawak Laksa - A Bowl of Spicy Goodness

Laksa | Best food in malaysia

Sarawak Laksa deserves a special place in our Malaysian food journey. This regional variation of laksa hails from the state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo.

It offers a unique twist to the classic laksa, with a fragrant coconut milk-based broth that's less spicy but equally flavorful.

What makes it truly special is the inclusion of ingredients like prawns, shredded chicken, bean sprouts, and a hard-boiled egg.

Sarawak laksa | Best food in malaysia

The broth is a delightful blend of lemongrass, galangal, and other aromatic spices, creating a dish that's both comforting and exciting to the taste buds.

3. Manok Pansoh - Bamboo Chicken Delight

Manok pansoh | Best food in malaysia

Manok Pansoh is a traditional Iban dish from Sarawak that's sure to tantalize your taste buds. It's a dish where chicken is cooked inside a bamboo stem along with a mixture of tapioca leaves, lemongrass, and other local herbs and spices.

This unique cooking method infuses the chicken with an earthy, smoky flavor that's simply irresistible. It's a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic Sarawakian culinary experience.

4. Apam Balik - Sweet Pancake Delight

Now, let's satisfy our sweet tooth with Apam Balik, a Malaysian-style pancake that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Apam balik | Best food in malaysia

It's typically filled with a mixture of crushed peanuts, sugar, and sweet corn. Think of it as a delightful Malaysian crepe that's perfect for dessert or a quick snack.

5. Roti Canai - Flaky, Buttery, and Delicious

Roti Canai, also known as Roti Prata in some regions, is a South Indian-inspired flatbread that has become a beloved breakfast staple in Malaysia.

What makes it so special? It's all about the crispy, flaky layers that practically melt in your mouth. Pair it with dhal (lentil curry) or a hearty chicken curry for an unforgettable meal. Roti Canai is one of the best foods in Malaysia you must try if you are visiting Malaysia!

6. Umai - Sarawak's Fresh Fish Salad

If you're in search of a refreshing and healthy dish, look no further than Umai. This traditional Sarawakian dish showcases the freshness of seafood and it is one of the best foods in Malaysia.

Umai | Best food in malaysia

It typically consists of thinly sliced raw fish, often white pomfret or mackerel, marinated in a zesty mixture of lime juice, chili peppers, shallots, and ginger. Umai is a delightful burst of flavors, with the citrusy tang of lime complementing the natural sweetness of the seafood.

7. Kolo Mee - Sarawak's Signature Noodle Dish

Kolo mee | Best food in malaysia

When it comes to noodles, Kolo Mee is a Sarawakian favorite that's enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. This dish features springy egg noodles tossed in a delicious sauce made from shallots, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of lard.

It's often served with slices of char siu (barbecued pork) or minced pork, along with green vegetables. Kolo Mee is all about simplicity and flavor, making it a beloved comfort food in Sarawak. It is definitely one of the best foods in Malaysia!

10. Teh Tarik - Malaysia's Signature Brew

As we wrap up our culinary journey, it's time to wash it all down with a quintessential Malaysian drink - Teh Tarik. This "pulled tea" is a strong, frothy black tea sweetened with condensed milk.

It's prepared by skillfully "pulling" the tea between two containers, creating a unique blend of flavors and a delightful caramel-like aroma.