Introduction:
Malaysia is renowned for its diverse and vibrant food culture, blending flavors and culinary traditions from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cuisines. In this guide, we delve into some of Sarawak's favorite foods, perfect for both locals and travelers alike. If you’re traveling and looking to recreate these delicious dishes, I’ve also included affiliate links where you can source the essential pastes and ingredients online.
1. Nasi Lemak
Source : Wikimedia Commons
Nasi Lemak, while popular throughout Malaysia, holds a special place in Sarawak. This fragrant rice dish is cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves and served with sambal (a spicy chili paste), fried crispy anchovies, toasted peanuts, boiled eggs, and cucumber slices. It's a harmonious blend of flavors that can be enjoyed any time of day.
Affiliate Link for Nasi Lemak Paste: Sambal Nasi Lemak
2. Laksa Sarawak
Source : Sarawak Tourism
Laksa Sarawak is a unique noodle soup distinct to the Malaysian state of Sarawak. The rich, spicy, and aromatic broth made from sambal belacan, sour tamarind, garlic, galangal, lemongrass, and coconut milk is paired with rice vermicelli, shredded chicken, prawns, and bean sprouts. This dish encapsulates the complex flavors of Sarawakian cuisine.
Affiliate Link for Laksa Sarawak Paste: Sarawak Laksa Paste
3. Ayam Goreng
Source : Wikimedia Commons
Ayam Goreng, or Malaysian fried chicken, is a beloved dish across the country. In Sarawak, it's particularly known for its distinct marination process, where chicken is infused with local spices and herbs before being deep-fried to a crispy perfection. The result is a dish with a unique and unforgettable flavor profile.
Affiliate Link for Ayam Goreng Marinade: Ayam Goreng Spice Mix
4. Sambal Udang
Source : Wikimedia Commons
Sambal Udang is a spicy prawn dish that's a staple in Sarawakian homes. Fresh prawns are cooked in a fiery sambal made from chilies, garlic, shallots, and shrimp paste. This dish is a true celebration of seafood and spice, reflecting the coastal influences of Sarawak's cuisine.
Affiliate Link for Sambal Udang Paste: Sambal Udang Paste
5. Char Kway Teow
Source : Wikimedia
Char Kway Teow, a popular street food, features flat rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, bloody cockles, Chinese lap cheong (sausage), bean sprouts, eggs, and chives in a savory soy sauce. In Sarawak, this dish often includes local twists and variations, making it a must-try.
Affiliate Link for Char Kway Teow Sauce: Char Kway Teow Sauce
6. Linut
Soucre : Wikimedia
Linut is a traditional Melanau dish from Sarawak, made from sago starch transformed into a sticky, translucent paste with hot water. It’s typically eaten with a savory fish sauce or sambal. This dish is a testament to the Melanau people's ingenuity and their use of local ingredients.
Affiliate Link for Linut Ingredients: Sago Starch
7. Tumpik
Tumpik, another Melanau specialty, consists of grated coconut and sago palm starch mixed and cooked on a griddle. It's served with sweet or savory dips, offering a versatile and delicious snack or meal component.
Affiliate Link for Tumpik Ingredients: Sago Starch, Lemantak
8. Roti Canai
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Roti Canai, a flaky, buttery flatbread of Indian origin, is a breakfast staple in Sarawak as well as the rest of Malaysia. It’s usually served with dhal (lentil curry) or a variety of meat curries, and its crispy texture makes it irresistible.
Affiliate Link for Roti Canai Mix: Roti Canai
9. Pisang Goreng
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pisang Goreng, or fried bananas, are a popular snack in Sarawak. Ripe bananas are sliced, coated in batter, and deep-fried until golden and crispy. This sweet treat is a perfect snack or dessert, loved by people of all ages.
Affiliate Link for Pisang Goreng Mix: Pisang Goreng Mix
10. Cendol
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cendol is a refreshing dessert made with pandan-flavored jelly noodles, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup, often served over shaved ice. In Sarawak, this dessert is a popular way to cool down and enjoy a sweet treat, especially in the tropical climate.
Affiliate Link for Cendol Ingredients: Jelly Falooda Mix, Barista Coconut Milk, Cocktail/Sugar Syrup
11. Satay
Source: Maggi Malaysia
Satay consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually served with a rich peanut sauce, rice cakes, and a simple cucumber-onion salad. In Sarawak, you can find variations that reflect the local taste and ingredients, making it a delightful culinary experience.
Affiliate Link for Satay Sauce : Satay Sauce
12. Umai
Source: Sarawak Tourism
Umai, a traditional Melanau raw fish salad, is similar to ceviche. It’s made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, shallots, chilies, and occasionally herbs like cilantro. This dish highlights the coastal flavors of Sarawak and is a refreshing appetizer or light meal.
13. Ayam Goreng Kunyit
Source: Maggi Malaysia
Ayam Goreng Kunyit is a flavorful turmeric fried chicken. The chicken pieces are marinated in turmeric and spices, then fried to golden perfection. This dish is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, offering a vibrant taste that is both aromatic and savory.
Affiliate Link for Ayam Goreng Kunyit Marinade: Serbuk Kunyit Spice Mix
14. Mi Jawa (Sarawak)
 | Mi Jawa, or Javanese noodles, is a savory and slightly sweet noodle dish. It’s typically prepared with egg noodles, chicken, shrimp, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and shallots. It's often garnished with fried shallots and lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Affiliate Link for Mi Jawa Sauce: Mi Jawa Sauce |
15. Rojak Sotong
Source : vivianpangkitchen.blogspot.com
Rojak Sotong is a squid salad featuring a mix of fresh and crunchy vegetables, fruits, and pieces of boiled squid, all tossed in a sweet and spicy rojak sauce made from shrimp paste, sugar, lime, and chili. This dish offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Affiliate Link for Rojak Sauce: Rojak Sauce
Conclusion
Sarawak’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. Each dish, from the hearty Nasi Lemak to the refreshing Cendol, tells a story of the region's rich cultural heritage and unique flavors. For those on the move or living abroad, these affiliate links will help you bring a taste of Sarawak into your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy these favorites no matter where you are.
Enjoy your culinary journey through Sarawak’s vibrant food scene, and happy cooking!
