How to Make the Most out of Great Food in Penang

Authored by Anitha Thanabalan (contributor)

Penang in Malaysia is a foodie paradise that will tantalize your taste buds! With its diverse mix of cultures, the city boasts an incredible array of cuisines that cater to locals, expats, and travellers alike.

From traditional Malay dishes like nasi lemak and satay to the famous spicy, sweet and sour flavours of Penang’s Chinese cuisine, there is no shortage of delicious food in Penang. But it’s not just about the food. The city’s street food culture is a must-try experience for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the local culture.

When in Penang, take a food tour or explore the famous night markets to sample some of the city’s best food offerings. With something for everyone, Penang is the ultimate destination for foodies looking to indulge in a world of flavours.

Food in Penang, you know you wanna try it.

How to Make the Most out of Great Food in Penang

One of the most delightful dishes I’ve encountered is Hainan Chicken Rice. This delectable creation originates from early Chinese immigrants hailing from Southern China. The chicken is expertly prepared by poaching it at boiling temperature, then roasted or steamed with a medley of tantalizing seasonings like garlic, ginger, pandan leaves, and more.

In the heart of Chulia Street, you’ll find a hidden gem called Goh Thew Chik Hainan Chicken Rice, one of my favourite spots to get this delicious treat. While there are numerous places to satisfy your chicken rice cravings, this place truly stands out. Interestingly, they specialize in serving chicken rice and may give you an odd look if you request anything else.

Now, if there’s one thing you absolutely must indulge in, it’s the infamous Wantan Mee from Ah Ngau. Without fail, Ah Ngau has been dishing out his signature Wantan Mee at the same spot for over three decades. Previously, his father upheld the same legacy of serving this mouthwatering noodle dish. The noodles themselves are lovingly handmade by a local noodle artisan. However, the flavour profile has remained unchanged over the years—they’re seasoned with lard and light soy sauce and served alongside minced pork wontons. Try them with pickled sliced green chillies, sesame oil, and a dash of pepper for an extra kick.

Ngau’s culinary repertoire doesn’t stop at Wantan Mee alone, as he’s also known for his irresistible beef noodles—a delicacy I am not accustomed to. This dish hails from an old Guangzhou recipe, featuring succulent beef brisket simmered to perfection in a rich and savoury dark broth. The beef noodles are served with the same wanton noodles, creating a uniquely harmonious taste that will leave you craving more.

Fresh chillies will play a part in the food in Penang.

Assam Laksa, a renowned Penang delicacy, combines a delightful medley of flavours that locals swear by. This traditional dish features a thick yet slightly thin broth comprising poached mackerel, tamarind, lemongrass, chillies, and shrimp paste. The tamarind adds a delightful tanginess, perfectly complementing the rice vermicelli noodles that crown the dish.

However, if the distinct fishy taste of Assam Laksa does not appeal to your palate, allow me to introduce you to Curry Laksa. Also known as curry mee in Penang due to the noodle variety it employs, this coconut-based curry soup boasts an equally tantalizing blend of ingredients. Picture bean curd puffs, fish sticks, shrimp, cockles, and shredded chicken, all harmoniously immersed in a rich, fragrant broth. Rest assured; you need not acquire a taste for congealed pork blood to relish this culinary delight.

Now, let’s delve into another culinary gem of Penang—the Penang Char Kway Teow. This mouthwatering dish features stir-fried flat rice noodles, skillfully infused with dark and light soy sauce and accompanied by succulent prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and fragrant chopped chives. While each street vendor may put their unique spin on its presentation, the essence of this dish remains intact. Some vendors even serve it on a banana leaf, allowing the noodles to absorb every flavour.

While it’s important to note that Penang Char Kway Teow may not be the epitome of a healthy dish due to its higher saturated fat content, this noodle masterpiece held great appeal in the past among fishermen, farmers, and cockle gatherers. It provided an affordable energy source and essential nutrients, making it a staple among hardworking individuals seeking sustenance.

Cooking up a feast – Penang Style.

Nasi Lemak, one of my all-time favourite dishes, is an exquisite culinary delight that transcends the boundaries of breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This delectable Malaysian specialty, lovingly referred to as “Fat rice” due to its rich and creamy coconut-infused rice, is elegantly plated with sambal – a compelling blend of fiery chilli peppers, shrimp paste, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, shallots, scallion, palm sugar, lime juice, and rice vinegar.

The symphony of flavours doesn’t end there. This mouthwatering dish is elevated with crispy fried anchovies, crunchy peanuts, and perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs. While the traditional rendition is already a masterpiece, there are delightful variations, such as the addition of savoury fried chicken or succulent chicken rendang. The latter features tender meat bathed in coconut milk and an aromatic medley of spices, slowly simmered until the flavours meld and the sauce thickens.

For any culinary explorer, a visit to Georgetown is essential, and the culinary crown jewel lies within Red Garden: a vibrant street food haven. This legendary food court not only pampers your taste buds with an endless array of culinary wonders but also offers the unique experience of a beer garden. Imagine savouring your delicious meal while enjoying a chilled beer. And the fun doesn’t stop there – every evening after nine, live entertainment takes centre stage, adding an infectious energy to the captivating ambience.

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