Malaysia is such an iconic country in Southeast Asia with its distinctive, diverse culture. Food is part of the culture we can learn to know more. Malaysia has Laksa as their one of the most authentic foods. This food is not only iconic but also heavenly delicious. It is even make it to the top 10 best food in the world by CNN. It was called as ‘Breakfast from the Gods’ by late Anthony Bourdain. However, you can expect for variety of Laksa in Malaysia as it has diverse culture
Different Laksa versions to try during your visit to Malaysia
Laksa is known as simply a noodle dish with various meat and vegetables toppings. The taste is very iconic that even there are some instant noodles with Laksa base flavor to indulge Laksa fans. Here are some of different versions of Laksa you can find in Malaysia:
Sarawak Laksa is a very appetizing Laksa in Malaysia and often called as one of the best and a must-try for tourists. The broth uses base made from various aromatic local spices such as lemongrass and galangal, sambal balacan, and chili paste made using shrimp paste, garlic, lime juice, and chili. Coocnut milk is also added into the broth to thicken the texture and add light-creamy flavor. It is usually served with rice noodles and various topping such as chicken slices, prawns, omelette slices, and bean sprouts.
Assam Laksa is from Penang and considered the most recommended version to try. The taste of this Laksa is controversially delicious. Some can be such a die hard fans while others can’t even stand it. The flavors you will get to taste from this dish are sour, spicy, and fishy. Unlike Sarawak Laksa that uses coconut milk for its broth base, Assam Laksa uses tamarind, ginger torch, and mackerel, hence the controversial flavors. It is served with rice noodles, and toppings of various herbs and garnishes.
Curry Laksa is from Kuala Lumpur and it has such a refreshing appearance with rich and savory taste. The base is made from curry paste, coconut milk, and laksa leaf. You can also boost its spiciness by adding sambal chilli past. For the taste, you can expect pretty strong curry from this Laksa. Hence, it is such a treat for curry fans. From a bowl of Curry Laksa, you can expect various ingredients included chicken strips, juicy prawns, tofu puffs, cockles, as well as springy fish balls. It is also added with yellow egg and vermicelli on top.
Laksam is from Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu. In the first glance, you might not be able to recognize it as Laksa because of the color of the broth. Most Laksa has bright red or orange color. Meanwhile, this Laksa has gravy colored-broth. The broth base is made with coconut milk, tamarind, and boiled mackerel resulted in creamy taste. It is usually served with bite-sized nuggets of rice noodles. The garnishes added are traditional salad of local vegetables and herbs.