Cuisine in Malaysia

Signature dishes

Nasi Lemak

National dish of coconut-milk cooked fragrant rice with sambal, anchovies, and peanuts.

Region: Nationwide
Main ingredients: Rice, Coconut milk, Anchovies, Peanuts, Sambal

Laksa (Penang Assam Laksa)

Thick rice noodle soup with fish broth and tamarind sourness.

Region: Penang
Main ingredients: Rice noodles, Mackerel, Tamarind, Mint, Chili

Satay

Marinated meat skewers charcoal-grilled and eaten with peanut sauce.

Region: Peninsula
Main ingredients: Chicken, Beef, Peanut sauce, Spices

Bak Kut Teh

Pork rib soup simmered with Chinese herbs and soy sauce.

Region: Klang
Main ingredients: Pork spare ribs, Garlic, Star anise, Cinnamon, Soy sauce

Roti Canai

Layered flatbread served with curry, a popular Indian breakfast.

Region: Nationwide
Main ingredients: Wheat flour, Ghee, Curry sauce

Char Kway Teow

Wide rice noodles stir-fried with prawns and bean sprouts, a street food staple.

Region: Penang
Main ingredients: Rice noodles, Prawns, Eggs, Chives, Soy sauce

Rendang

Beef simmered in coconut milk and spices, a festive dish.

Region: East Coast Peninsula
Main ingredients: Beef, Coconut milk, Lemongrass, Chili

Ice Kacang

Shaved ice topped with red beans, jelly, and condensed milk, a tropical dessert.

Region: Nationwide
Main ingredients: Shaved ice, Red beans, Corn, Syrup

Teh Tarik

Malaysian-style chai with milk tea poured from height to create foam.

Region: Nationwide
Main ingredients: Black tea, Condensed milk, Sugar

Kolo Mee

Sarawak specialty. Curly egg noodles tossed in sweet soy sauce and lard.

Region: Sarawak
Main ingredients: Egg noodles, Char siu, Sweet soy sauce, Spring onions