Stunning beaches and jaw-dropping skyscrapers are impressive alright. But this Southeast Asian paradise of Malaysia is also a gastronomic wonderland. From spicy skewers to tangy coconut soups – there’s a lot to be explored. So, grab your fork and loosen your belt. We’re digging deep into the best Malaysian food that you simply cannot miss on your Malaysia trip.
1. Nasi Lemak
Is there anything more comforting than a heaping mound of fragrant coconut rice, a spoonful of sambal (spicy chilli paste), crispy anchovies, boiled eggs – topped with peanuts and cucumber slices? I hardly think so. Best part? It’s all wrapped in a banana leaf for even more flavour. Now this, this is how you should kickstart your Malaysian food exploration.
2. Char Kway Teow
Craving something spicy? This Chinese food inspired dish might satisfy you. Stir-fried shrimp, Lap Cheong sausage, fish cakes, chives, bean sprouts and eggs are tossed with dark soy sauce & lard until it catches a charred aroma from the blazing hot wok. Needless to say, it’s a Malaysian street food staple that packs a punch.
3. Teh Tarik
You’ve heard of pulled pork. But how about pulled tea? Say hello to Teh Tarik – Malaysia’s unofficial national drink. On every Malaysian shopping street, you’ll find a skilled Mamak (street vendor) showcasing their insane skill of pouring tea back and forth between two cups to create its signature froth. It’s the best beverage to savour on your Malaysia trip.
4. Laksa
On a Malaysia trip? You NEED to try Laksa. This spicy noodle soup comes in many regional varieties – and they all pack a punch. The most popular versions are Curry Laksa and Assam Laksa. Curry Laksa boasts a rich coconut milk broth with tofu puffs, fish sticks, shrimp, and cockles. Yummy. Asam Laksa hits you with a tangy fish-based broth, tamarind, and pineapple. Delicious.
5. Roti Canai
If you’re even a little bit interested in Malaysian cuisine, there’s a good chance you’ve already tried Roti Canai. This Indian-influenced flatbread is flaky, buttery, and usually served with Dal (lentil curry) or really, any other type of curry. A Malaysian food exploration is incomplete without witnessing the vendors flip and twirl the dough into the most satisfying breakfast dish ever.
6. Satay
Satay? More like: Slay (sorry). Who can resist chomping on some skewered and grilled, bite-sized pieces of marinated meat? But that’s not it. The decadent peanut dipping sauce is where the magic’s at. You better bathe the meat in it! Satay’s the epitome of Malaysian food: smoky, flavour-packed and will 100% leave you wanting more.
7. Hainanese Chicken Rice
Wanna try some Malaysian comfort food? Hainanese Chicken Rice is the one for you. Tender poached chicken, fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, and accompanied by a trio of sauces: chilli, ginger, and dark soy. Just so succulent. It’s best savoured on a cosy, rainy day, wrapped in your blanket, Netflix in the background, and a bowl of this warm goodness.
8. Cendol
Mmm, it’s time for dessert. Our Malaysian cuisine escapade would be incomplete without Cendol AKA the perfect culinary weapon to fight the intense tropical heat. Think: shaved ice, coconut milk, green jelly noodles, topped with palm sugar syrup. It’s refreshing. It’s indulgent. It’s a must-try Malaysian food. Period.
9. Nasi Kandar
Don’t know what to do and eat in Malaysia? This buffet-on-a-plate type of dish is your salvation. Nasi Kandar is basically steamed rice, served with a variety of side dishes – all on one plate. From fried chicken to boiled eggs to spiced okra – there’s so much to choose from. And you get to mix and match every dish to create a plate that’s uniquely yours.
What’s the national dish of Malaysia?
Nasi Lemak! It’s commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch by the locals. The name directly translates into “fatty rice” in Malay.
Is Malaysian food spicy?
Yes, Malaysian cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavours, and will almost always be served with Sambal (Chilli paste).
Which city in Malaysia has the best food?
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s buzzing capital is usually considered a hotspot where you can try authentic Malaysian food from all regions. Come check it out on our Malaysia and Singapore Highlights trip.
