Malaysian dishes are heavily influenced by Malay, Thai, Chinese, Indonesian and Indian cuisine. This melting pot of various cooking styles has resulted in a unique cuisine that makes Malaysia one of the best places in Asia for food. Some dishes are similar to those found in Indonesia – like satay, rendang and sambal – while others are also found across the border in Singapore. Flavours are strong, aromatic and spice – and super delicious!
While you’ll have the most authentic experience of this cuisine in Malaysia itself, there’s still plenty of dishes you can make at home that will bring the flavours to you instead.
We’re sharing some of the best classic Malaysian dishes. These recipes aren’t just any recipes either, as they have been created by the world’s top food bloggers. The best of the best. Make sure check out the other great dishes on their sites too.
The Best Malaysian Dishes
1. Nyonya Chicken Curry
A rich chicken and potato curry that is absolutely packed full of flavour. Ideal to make in advance as it only gets better the day after making it.
Recipe created by Somdatta.
2. Slow Cooker Beef Rendang
Packed with flaky, fall-apart beef cooked in creamy coconut milk with fragrant lemongrass, kaffir lime, galangal, ginger and a myriad of spices, this traditional Malaysian slow cooker beef rendang can be left to bubble away in the kitchen while you get on with your day!
Recipe created by Kacie.
3. Karipap Pusing
Similar to a Pasty, Karipap is another hugely popular snack in South East Asia. In Indonesia, it is called Pastel with its own twists. It is a snack of Southeast Asian origin. It is a small pie consisting of curry with chicken and potatoes in a deep-fried or baked pastry shell.
Recipe created by Citra.
4. Malaysian Fried Noodles
Malaysian Fried Noodles (Mamak Style Mee Goreng) features yellow noodles, potato and bean sprouts stir-fried in a spicy chili sambal balanced with a sweet sauce mixture. Amazing texture and over-the-top flavour.
Recipe created by Char.
5. Prawn Laksa
Laksa is a popular Malaysian coconut noodle soup. This version features prawns (which can easily be swapped for chicken) and isn’t too spicy.
Recipe created by Josie.
6. Five Nuts Mooncake with Sambal Dried Shrimp
A truly unique local cake that will take some patience and skill to get right. This recipe is ideal for you as it has great step by step guides.
Recipe created by Yeanley.
7. Ulam Fish And Herb Salad
This recipe is ideal for those seeking a healthy post work out meal. Packed full of greens it is absolutely bursting with flavour.
Recipe created by Chrissy.
Spending some time in the country? Check out The 25 Best Burgers In Malaysia.