Malaysian Food Melts In Your Mouth
Malaysian Food Melts In Your Mouth
Use your fingers, don’t be shy
Nasi Lemak is the national dish of Malaysia
It’s made with rice that’s cooked with coconut milk, pandan leaves, and spices. Like any good homemade dish, each cook has a slightly different take on it.
Nasi means rice in Malay.
It usually comes with roasted peanuts, sambal (chili sauce and shrimp paste), and dried anchovies. Side dishes can include egg, tofu, calamari, and fried chicken. The possibilities are endless
Nasi Kandar is another must try
This Malay/Indian fusion cuisine is virtually synonymous with Penang and is an absolute must-try. To enjoy this delicious meal, you’ll need a plate of hot rice accompanied by fried chicken, beef curry, a piece of squid (sotong), turmeric-infused cabbage, and a symphony of different sauces.
Nasi Kandar was either created by Indian immigrants or Tamil Muslim traders, depending on which version of history you believe.
The first Indians were referred to as Chulias and they were brought over to do the hard labor in Penang and elsewhere in Malaysia. They took the traditional Nasi Lemak and added pappadam and pickled cucumbers (Acar Timun).
Cooks in Penang created this dish to feed hungry working people, fulfill basic dietary needs, and give people a taste of home.
Nasi Kandar is home cooking at its most basic: rice, a curry, a boiled or fried egg, okra, coconut chutney, and green chilies for spicy heat.
It was originally delivered in two baskets suspended on a pole called a Kandar stick, which gave it its name
Traditionally, you eat it with your fingers, always using your right hand (don’t ask).
Fingers are a great way to enjoy curries….just need to know where the sink is before starting. Malaysia really is a foodie paradise….most of each day is taken up with talking about food, shopping for food, cooking the food, and eating it
Some dishes are served on banana leaves or pandan leaves which aren’t edible. They add flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.
Nasi Goreng means fried rice, and this one includes bits of beef. Plain Nasi Goreng is delicious and spicy. The rice is stir-fried with shrimp paste, fish sauce, and tamarind.
If you have a chance to travel there, I encourage you to take the time to explore, engage and enjoy the country’s diverse offerings.
And eat as much as you can!
Some cool things I’m enjoying
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The healthiest thing you can do for your body this week. Seriously.