Malaysia offers a variety of local cuisines that are celebrated and loved by Malaysians. However, one option definitely stands out and that is the staple food of Malaysia we all know and love – i.e. nasi lemak.
Foodpanda Malaysia has brought together some of the local favourites, for attendees to devour at a food tasting event held at its headquarters in Bangsar South, Kuala Lumpur recently.
The food tasting session is one of the many efforts carried out by foodpanda Malaysia to not only provide local SMEs as well as HomeChefs the platform to shine but to also provide them with more brand exposure that could potentially boost their sales, in line with the Malaysian government’s efforts to support small businesses and spur the local economy.
Foodpanda Malaysia senior commercial director Jay Ar. Juan said the company is passionate in helping small vendors overcome barriers and create inspiring success stories of their own.
“Our hope in the long-run is for more Malaysians to be supportive of our local businesses and continue to empower them through our app. In the past, foodpanda’s efforts have been evident, especially with the launch of HomeChefs specifically for small businesses and special perks such as insurance schemes and more. Through all that we do, we want to serve you – customers, vendors, delivery partners. All Malaysians,” he said.
Jay Ar. continued, “In conjunction with the recent National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations, we have decided to introduce some of the local businesses that offer different variations of this classic Malaysian dish. For most people, nasi lemak is considered to be a staple item in their household and personally for me, it is one of my favourite local dishes.”
“Based on our data, we also found that this much-loved dish continues to be one of the top ordered items for most foodpanda users and we want you to try them all and tell us which is your favourite,” he added.
The origin of nasi lemak interestingly came from the mere necessity to exploit readily available ingredients such as coconut milk, and adding rice to it for flavourful results. They were served together with fried ikan bilis (anchovies), vegetables and sambal to make this dish a nourishing, filling meal.
The nasi lemak has not stopped evolving through the years and today it has seen many variations on the dish.
In the modern day, although originally introduced as a breakfast dish, Malaysians all over have grown accustomed to enjoying this delectable meal at any time of the day; be it the first thing in the morning or the last thing at night.
Here are five vendors, that you probably never knew, who have perfected the nasi lemak dish in the Klang Valley.
1. Nasi Ayam Mafia
Located in Sepang, they are known for a spicy and thick version of nasi lemak. The difference in their nasi lemak flavours is due to the fact that all their ingredients are freshly imported from Thailand. You can enjoy the deliciousness of nasi ayam mafia paired with their crispy yet juicy fried chicken.
2. Nasi Lemak Saleha
Nasi Lemak Saleha is a truly inspiring business success story. Having started with a humble beginning as a roadside stall, owners Mat Isa Abdul Rahman and Saleha Abdullah are today proud owners of two restaurants and a factory where they process raw materials and cook their special sambal. This banana leaf nasi lemak is highly sought after to a point that they are recognised as the most active and famous restaurant in Kampung Pandan and have seen exponential growth after being listed on foodpanda.
3. Nasi Lemak Kukus SS19
Nasi Lemak Kukus SS19 is another modern day success story. This renowned shop is well-known amongst working adults and university students in Subang Jaya. Their staple nasi lemak is famous for its wide selections of side dishes such as squid sambal, chicken rendang and spiced fried chicken. Their freshly steamed fragrant nasi lemak will make your mouth water, and this is exactly the experience that you can expect that leaves you wanting more.
4. Amira Cafe
Having operated throughout the 80’s and 90’s, Amira Cafe’s nasi lemak has been a mainstay withstanding the test of time. Individually squeezed and shredded coconut milk are examples of what sets this particular Nasi Lemak apart from their competitors. Their ingredients imported from India is an indicator of how much thought, love and hard work have gone into behind producing this great dish.
5. Pak Li Kopitiam
Cleanliness, simplicity and cosiness encapsulate this 30-year-in-making legendary kopitiam. Serving nasi lemak with spice fried chicken is a popular choice amongst regular visitors. Their sambal is known for having a unique flavour that cannot be found anywhere else. Pair it with the fried chicken and the end result is definitely worth it.
