Features of cuisine in Penang

National dishes that are a must-try in Penang.

Penang's culinary scene is a true reflection of its multiculturalism, blending various culinary influences into a rich and diverse tapestry of flavors. The national cuisine of Malaysia has successfully integrated elements from the most popular regional cuisines, resulting in a unique and tantalizing dining experience.

Throughout Penang, you'll find a plethora of Chinese, Thai, and Indian restaurants and eateries, each offering their own delectable and distinctive dishes. It's no wonder that Penang has earned the well-deserved title of the "Food Capital of Malaysia."

Rice takes center stage in many of Penang's national dishes, prepared in a myriad of delightful ways. Whether it's stir-fried with an array of vegetables and aromatic spices, steamed to perfection, or stewed in creamy coconut milk, rice is an integral component of Penang's culinary heritage. One of the island's beloved dishes is satay—tender, marinated chicken skewers cooked over an open flame and served alongside ketupat rice, which is rice wrapped in fragrant coconut leaves and steamed. Ketupat is not only an accompaniment but also a delightful main course, often paired with an assortment of vegetables.

The national dish of nasi lemak

Breakfast is the main meal for Malaysians, so nasi lemak is one of the must-try dishes in Penang. This is rice cooked in coconut milk with boiled eggs, fresh cucumbers, roasted peanuts and anchovies.

Restaurants in Penang may surprise you with exotic dishes. An interesting one is tahu gorent - small cubes of soy flour fried with soy shoots and spices. You will be surprised by the exquisite taste of renang dish, which is cooked for several hours. Fans of exotics will like spicy ekor soup or chicken soup soto ayam.

A real symbol of the island is the laksa dish, which in 2011 received the 7th place in the top 50 most delicious dishes in the world. Asam laksa is a spicy fish dish, the result of mixing the features of Chinese and Malay cuisine. Fish broth boiled on herbs is complemented by rice noodles, fresh cucumbers, mint leaves and finely chopped raw onions.


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