Malaysia is a food lover’s paradise, offering a culinary journey that’s as diverse as its culture. From hearty street eats to creations steeped in tradition, every dish has its own unique flavours. If you are planning a trip, these four must-try dishes will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure!

Nasi Lemak

Start your culinary tour with nasi lemak, the nation’s beloved dish. It features coconut milk-infused rice, fragrant with pandan, served with sambal belacan for a fiery kick. Add crunchy cucumbers, toasted peanuts, crispy anchovies, and a hard-boiled egg for the perfect balance. At some hotels like Temple Tree Resort, you can enjoy it with chicken rendang for a fantastic blend of flavours.

Ikan Bakar

Ikan bakar, or grilled fish, takes seafood to a whole new level. Marinated to perfection and grilled in bamboo leaf wrappers, it’s packed with smoky, aromatic flavours. Popular fish choices include barramundi and snapper, served with steamed rice, sambal, and optional veggie sides. Served at the top restaurants in Langkawi, it’s the kind of meal you will dream about long after your trip!

Asam Pedas

What you can expect from asam pedas is in the name itself which translates to ‘sour and spicy’. This fish curry gets its sourness from the use of tamarind, while the heat comes from chillies / chilli paste. Traditionally made with freshwater fish, some versions feature prawns or even stingrays. Pair it with steamed rice, a salted egg, and ulam (a type of salad) for a heavenly meal.

Cun Cun, Sop Ikan Asam Pedas Batam, CC BY-SA 4.0

Satay

No foodie trip here is complete without sampling satay one of the most popular foods in Malaysia. These skewers of seasoned and charcoal-grilled meat are street food at its finest. Choose from chicken, beef, or mutton, served with a side of spicy peanut sauce that’s downright addictive. Whether as a snack or appetiser, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot!