Joanna James
The beautiful island of Langkawi is a gastronomic treasure trove located off the northwest coast of Malaysia. You'll be hankering for more thanks to the island's delectable food scene, which features everything from delicious street food to traditional Malay cuisine. The following are the ten best Malay foods you should sample when visiting Langkawi:
Popular in Langkawi and all around Malaysia, Nasi Campur is considered a staple meal. This meal consists of steamed rice accompanied by an assortment of side dishes, including sambal goreng, beef rendang, fried chicken, and other veggies. Its customisable nature lets you design the ideal dish of flavours, which is what makes Nasi Campur so beautiful!
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup with Malay and Chinese flavours. There are other variations available in Langkawi, including Asam Laksa, which has a sour and spicy broth prepared with tamarind, chilli peppers, and mackerel, and Laksa Kedah, which has a creamy broth made with coconut milk.
India gave birth to the fluffy, buttery flatbread known as roti canai, which has since spread throughout Malaysian cuisine. It is frequently served with a side of chicken or mutton curry, or dhal (lentil curry), for dipping.
Fresh seafood is a speciality of Langkawi, and Ikan Bakar is highly recommended. It consists of fish that is caught nearby, like mackerel or stingray, that is perfectly grilled and covered in a sambal sauce that is sour, spicy, and slightly sweet. It can be served with some steamed rice for a genuinely filling dinner.
Nasi lemak, generally known as Malaysia's national dish, consists of a spicy sambal sauce, hard-boiled egg, roasted peanuts, fried anchovies, and fragrant coconut rice served with various accompaniments. The flavours and textures are expertly balanced and are a definitive “must try” in Langkawi.
A classic Malay delicacy, keropok lekor is made with fish and tapioca flour. It is formed into long, cylindrical sections, which are deep-fried until crispy. Keropok Lekor is a staple of Langkawi's night markets, typically eaten as a snack or side dish.
Asian and Malay flavours come together in the stir-fried noodle dish called mee goreng. It has protein (such as chicken, prawns or tofu), veggies, and a saucy, tangy and spicy dressing mixed with yellow noodles.
A popular skewered and grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) dish called satay is served with hot peanut sauce for dipping. There are several variations available in Langkawi, such as Satay Lilit, which is minced fish or meat wrapped in lemongrass sticks.
The Peranakan culture, which combines elements of Chinese and Malay culture, is the source of the pancake variety known as apam balik. It is filled with a sweet concoction of maize, peanuts and sugar and is formed from a batter consisting of rice flour, eggs and coconut milk. Top hotels, such as the Temple Tree Resort, offers a variety of local dishes at their restaurants, so be sure to try this delicious dish out!
Although not really a dish, the fruit durian is a favourite in Malaysia and should be mentioned. Durian has a strong scent and a creamy texture. People either love it or loathe it. When visiting Langkawi, check out some of the top restaurants in Langkawi and if you're feeling very daring, try a dessert or beverage made with durian!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
