SELAMAT DATANG!

pronounced {SUH-LAH-MAHT DAH-TONGUE}

As the title suggests in my native language - "WELCOME!"

Kuala Lumpur's City Skyline

MALAYSIA, a country you may have heard of but have never actually had an idea of where it is located or what it is about. Having been born and bred in the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, I am no stranger to its land, people, culture and FOOD.

Land
Geographically,  Malaysia is almost as diverse as its culture because it is home to prehistoric rainforests and countless animal and plant species. Malaysia is located right above the equator in South East Asia and is separated into two parts by the South China Sea. The Western Peninsula is where its capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is located.

People & Culture
With a population of 29 million, Malaysia prides itself for being both culturally and ethnically diverse. The main ethnic groups include the Malays, Chinese and Indians, along with other indigenous groups. Malaysians are known for being very hospitable to their guests.

Food
Malaysia is undoubtedly one of the top food destinations in the world to satisfy any culinary yearning. Its food is an eclectic amalgamation of flavors influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, Eurasian and even Western food. Any Malaysian or anyone who has traveled to Malaysia will rave about their Malaysian food experience.

"World's 50 Most Delicious Foods 2012" - CNN
"The World's Top 10 Cities for Street Food 2012" - Forbes
"The Best Countries For Food" - Lonely Planet

These are just a few mouth-watering Malaysian dishes...

'Bak Kut Teh' (Bah-Koot-Tay)
Literally translated as "Meat Bone Tea" where pork ribs are simmered in a concoction of Chinese herbs with Goji berries.

'Banana Leaf Rice'
Heavily influenced by Southern Indian food, this meal is a favorite among Malaysians during lunch time. Fried marinated chicken, lentil and chicken curry along with rice are served on a banana leaf. Preferably consumed by hand. 

'Nasi Lemak' (Nah-See Luh-Mahk)
A popular dish to start a typical Malaysian's day. It is rice cooked with coconut milk and served with chili paste, hard boiled eggs, cucumbers, peanuts and anchovies. Occasionally, it is served with chicken curry on the side.

It is no surprise that Malaysian food has found its way into American tastebuds. In my personal travels, I have encountered numerous authentic restaurants in New York City, Chicago, Minneapolis as well as Miami! This blog will bring your taste buds on a tantalizing (albeit virtual) journey as we explore Malaysian cuisine and its presence in the United States.

Watch this space for more to come!

-That Malaysian Boy-