Malaysia is a food lover’s paradise, offering an eclectic mix of flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage. From its Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences to the diverse indigenous communities, Malaysian cuisine offers an exciting range of snacks that are as varied as the nation itself. Whether you’re wandering through vibrant night markets, exploring hawker stalls, or visiting local cafes, Malaysia’s snacks offer an authentic taste of its diverse culinary traditions.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best local snacks you should try in Malaysia, each one offering a unique taste of the country’s food culture.
1. Satay
A beloved Malaysian street food, satay consists of marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) skewered on sticks and grilled to perfection over charcoal. The skewers are served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce, and often accompanied by a small serving of rice cakes, cucumber, and onions.
The aroma of sizzling satay wafts through Malaysian night markets, and it’s a must-try snack. The smoky, tender meat paired with the savory peanut sauce is a flavor combination you won’t forget. Satay Kajang is particularly famous in Malaysia, with the town of Kajang near Kuala Lumpur known for its satay stalls.
2. Roti Canai
Roti Canai is a delicious, flaky, and crispy flatbread that is one of Malaysia’s most popular snacks for breakfast or a mid-day treat. Often served with a side of dhal (lentil curry) or sambal (spicy chili paste), roti canai is best enjoyed freshly made from a local Indian Muslim eatery known as a mama shop.
Roti canai can also be made with different fillings or toppings, such as egg, cheese, or sugar, offering both savory and sweet variations. The crispy edges and soft interior of roti canai make it a comforting snack for many Malaysians.
3. Keropok Lekor
A traditional snack from Terengganu, keropok lekor is a type of fish sausage that is made from fish, flour, and spices, then deep-fried to golden perfection. The texture of keropok lekor is chewy yet crispy on the outside, making it a fun and addictive snack. It’s often served with a sweet chili dipping sauce that complements the savory fish flavor.
Keropok lekor is a beloved snack on the east coast of Malaysia, and you can find it at local shops, markets, or even at food trucks across the country. The snack is perfect for snacking on the go or sharing with friends.
4. Pisang Goreng
Pisang goreng, or fried bananas, is a popular snack that’s found in virtually every corner of Malaysia. Bananas are coated in a light batter and deep-fried until they are golden and crispy on the outside, with the inside remaining soft and sweet. This simple snack is often sprinkled with a little sugar, or served with a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce.
Pisang goreng is enjoyed by people of all ages, whether as a street food snack or as a sweet treat in cafes. It’s especially popular during the rainy season, enjoyed with a warm drink like teh tarik (pulled tea) or kopi (coffee).
5. Kuih (Traditional Malay Cakes)
Kuih are bite-sized traditional Malay cakes and pastries, often made from rice flour, coconut, or glutinous rice, and flavored with pandan, coconut milk, or palm sugar. There are countless varieties of kuih, but some of the most popular ones include:
- Kuih Lapis: A colorful steamed cake made from layers of rice flour and coconut milk.
- Onde-Onde: Sweet, chewy rice flour balls filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut.
- Kuih Seri Muka: A two-layered dessert with a glutinous rice base and a pandan custard topping.
Kuih are often served during festivals, special occasions, and as an afternoon snack with tea. These sweet, aromatic treats are a perfect representation of Malaysia’s sweet-toothed culture.
6. Apam Balik
Apam balik is a popular street snack that resembles a stuffed pancake or thin crepe. The batter is made from a combination of flour, eggs, and sugar, and then cooked on a large griddle. Once it’s cooked, the apam balik is filled with a variety of sweet fillings like peanuts, corn, sugar, and sometimes even chocolate or cheese.
The result is a warm, crispy exterior with a soft, sweet filling inside. Apam balik can be found in street markets, and it’s often served folded in half for easy eating. The combination of sweet and savory fillings makes it a beloved snack for both locals and visitors alike.
7. Char Kway Teow (Stir-Fried Flat Rice Noodles)
While traditionally a dish for breakfast or lunch, char kway teow is also a popular snack in Malaysia. This dish consists of stir-fried flat rice noodles, cooked with eggs, prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, chives, and Chinese sausage, all sautéed in a hot wok with soy sauce and a hint of chili.
Char kway teow is aromatic and full of flavors—salty, savory, and slightly spicy. It’s a dish you can find at almost any hawker center or food stall, and it’s often eaten as a snack or light meal during the day or late at night.
8. Laksa (Noodle Soup)
While laksa is a hearty and filling dish, it’s often enjoyed as a light snack or meal in Malaysia, especially in the hot climate. This iconic dish comes in several regional variations, but the most popular are penang laksa (a tangy and spicy fish-based broth) and curry laksa (a coconut milk-based, spicy soup with chicken, prawns, or tofu).
Laksa is typically served with thick rice noodles, and it’s loaded with flavor thanks to its bold, aromatic broth. It is a favorite snack for locals, particularly during lunchtime, and can be found in hawker centers, food courts, and local eateries.
9. Chendol
While not a traditional “snack” in the sense of finger foods, chendol is a popular dessert and sweet treat enjoyed all over Malaysia. Chendol is a cool, refreshing dessert made from crushed ice, palm sugar syrup, coconut milk, and green rice flour jelly. It’s typically topped with red beans or corn, adding texture and flavor to the dish.
Chendol is especially popular in the hot, humid climate of Malaysia, offering a sweet, refreshing reprieve on a warm day. It’s commonly found at street stalls and dessert shops, making it an ideal treat to enjoy after a meal or as a snack in between.
10. Murtabak
Murtabak is a savory stuffed flatbread that originated from the Indian Muslim community in Malaysia. This delicious snack is made by stuffing a thin flatbread with minced meat (beef, chicken, or lamb), onions, eggs, and various spices, then frying it until golden and crispy.
Murtabak is often served with a side of pickled vegetables or a small bowl of curry for dipping. It’s a filling and flavorful snack, perfect for those who enjoy a hearty bite on the go. Murtabak is usually sold by street vendors or in eateries specializing in Indian-Muslim cuisine.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s local snacks are an integral part of its vibrant food culture, offering a delicious window into the country’s diverse culinary heritage. From sweet treats like kuih and pisang goreng to savory bites like satay and murtabak, the variety of flavors and textures available are sure to satisfy any craving.
Whether you’re strolling through bustling markets, sitting in a local café, or exploring the streets, sampling Malaysia’s snacks will give you a true taste of its vibrant food scene. These snacks, often crafted with generations of tradition and love, are not just food—they are a reflection of Malaysia’s diverse cultural tapestry.
