Malaysia is a food paradise with a diverse culinary scene influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures. Here are 10 must-try foods in Malaysia:
1. Nasi Lemak 🍛
The national dish of Malaysia! Fragrant coconut rice served with sambal (spicy chili paste), fried anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, and cucumber. Often paired with fried chicken or rendang.
2. Char Kway Teow 🍜
A famous stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, prawns, egg, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts, all cooked in a smoky soy sauce mix.
3. Laksa 🍜🔥
There are different types, but Penang Assam Laksa (spicy and sour fish-based soup) and Curry Laksa (rich coconut curry broth) are the most popular.
4. Roti Canai 🫓
A crispy, flaky Indian-influenced flatbread served with dhal (lentil curry) or chicken curry.
5. Satay 🍢
Grilled skewers of marinated meat (chicken, beef, or lamb) served with peanut sauce, rice cakes, onions, and cucumber.
6. Hainanese Chicken Rice 🍗
Poached or roasted chicken served with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, accompanied by garlic chili sauce and soy sauce.
7. Banana Leaf Rice 🍛🌿
A South Indian-inspired dish where rice is served on a banana leaf with a variety of curries, pickles, papadum, and vegetables.
8. Nasi Kandar 🍛
A Northern Malaysian favorite—steamed rice served with an assortment of flavorful curries and side dishes, often from a Mamak (Indian Muslim) restaurant.
9. Cendol 🍧
A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and green pandan-flavored jelly noodles.
10. Rendang 🥩🔥
A rich, slow-cooked dry curry made with beef (or chicken), coconut milk, and a blend of aromatic spices.
