Four on a journey

When it comes to dining in Southeast Asia, the possibilities are endless! Sure, eating out is a popular choice, but let’s not overlook the joy of eating in and cooking with local ingredients and creating unforgettable meals right at your AirBnB. Imagine the fun and adventure of discovering unique flavours and experiencing the vibrant culinary culture of Malaysia in your own kitchen! Whether you’re a family on the go or simply looking for a new culinary experience, embracing the joy of eating in will open up a world of delicious possibilities. Embrace the spirit of exploration and let’s embark on a delightful journey of flavours together!

What do I eat when I eat in then?

What can one eat in Malaysia (not a trick question but have you seen the supermarkets? They have broccoli on ice!)? There are many different types of vegetables and other goodies which one don’t usually get in western supermarkets. I’ll list a few readily available and tasty ones and what you can do with them.

Water spinach

Kangkung, also known as water spinach, is a popular leafy vegetable in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. Here’s a simple and delicious way to prepare kangkung:

1. Start by washing the kangkung thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. Trim the roots off and cut the kangkung into 3-4cm lengths.
3. Heat a wok or skillet over medium heat and add some oil. Olive oil or vegetable oil works well.
4. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry until fragrant and slightly golden.
5. Add the kangkung to the pan and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until it starts to wilt. Be careful not to overcook it, as you want to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
6. If you want to add a traditional touch, you can also include some belacan, a type of shrimp paste. Simply add a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) to the pan and stir-fry it with the kangkung for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Season with salt and pepper or any other desired seasonings according to your taste preferences.
8. Remove the kangkung from the heat and serve immediately as a side dish or part of a larger meal.

Enjoy the delightful flavours of stir-fried kangkung, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and spices such as sambal belacan. The next time you head to a supermarket, make sure you pick some up for the next time you eating in!

Okra

Okra is one of our family favourites. Cook it badly it’s a slimy mess. Cook it well it tastes amazing. Did I mention that it’s a superfood as well? Simply blanch it in some boiling salted water for 30 second, drizzle on some sesame oil and oyster sauce and serve.

Long beans

Long beans. The tall cousin of the French beans. Give it the garlic stir-fry treatment and if you are feeling adventurous, add some sambal belacan while frying!

Fish balls

What! Fish have balls? Worry not, you haven’t failed your high school biology. Fish balls are simply a staple around Southeast Asia. I strongly recommend trying them as they are cheap, tasty, and an easy way to get fish into your fussy children’s diet.

Currently our favourite ones are the “Steamboat 5-in-1 500g“. We’ve made clear-broth soup, added it to stir-fries and even a curry dish.

Enoki mushrooms

Ah Enoki mushrooms. Hard to imagine what to do with such mushrooms. They don’t look fry-able with butter nor can you fill them. What now?

We love putting them into just about everything. Put them into a soup, a curry, a stir-fry or even some chow mein a minute or two before serving and you have yourself some tasty and nutritious dish.

Ketchup Manis

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will thrill your taste buds and add a burst of umami to your dishes? Allow me to introduce you to a delectable condiment that will elevate your cooking to new heights – sweet soy sauce. Picture soy sauce, but with a thicker consistency and a delightful touch of sweetness. And when it comes to sweet soy sauce, one brand that shines above the rest is the iconic ABC sauce.

Pouring this luscious brown elixir onto your plate is like unlocking a world of culinary possibilities. Its rich, savory taste blends effortlessly with stir-fries, marinades, glazes, and dipping sauces. Whether you’re whipping up a classic Asian dish, experimenting with fusion cuisine, or simply adding a touch of deliciousness to your everyday meals, sweet soy sauce is a must-have ingredient in your pantry.

The versatility of sweet soy sauce knows no bounds. It can transform a simple plate of noodles into a tantalising feast, infusing it with a deep, caramelised flavor. Marinating your favourite protein, be it succulent chicken, tender beef, or even tofu, in this magical sauce elevates the taste to a whole new level. The hint of sweetness caramelises upon cooking, forming a delectable glaze that will delight your senses.

While the ABC sauce is a standout choice, there are other brands and varieties of sweet soy sauce available for you to explore. Each brand may offer its own unique blend of flavors, giving you the chance to discover the perfect one for your palate.

So why wait? Set out on a delightful culinary adventure and embrace the wonders of sweet soy sauce. Add it to your shopping list, stock up on this liquid gold, and let your taste buds revel in the harmonious symphony of flavors that awaits. Trust me, once you start using sweet soy sauce in your cooking, you won’t be able to imagine your kitchen without it. Go ahead, take a culinary leap and let the magic of sweet soy sauce enchant your meals!

Eating at home: Putting it together

When it comes to eating in, Let’s get creative in the kitchen! This recipe is all about adding ingredients to your heart’s content. Taste a bit too salty? No worries, just throw in some more keow teow, water spinach, or enoki mushrooms. And if it needs a little extra flavour, go ahead and add more salt, soy sauce, or ketchup manis. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!

1. Heat your wok up to the temperature matching the surface of the sun
2. Add oil
3. Throw in a handful of keow teow
4. Add ketchup manis
5. Throw in a few fish balls
6. Optional: throw in an egg
7. Add some water spinach
8. Add some enoki mushrooms
9. Serve!

If you want to learn more about Chinese cooking, please have a look at my series, start with Stress-free Chinese cooking for beginners part 1: the basics.

Do you have any other must-try ingredients in South-East Asia? Leave me a comment below and please subscribe!