Penang Curry Mee

Penang curry mee, a renowned Malaysian dish, is a delightful culinary experience that combines various elements to create a unique and flavorful bowl of noodles. This iconic dish is characterized by its delicious springy noodles, a well-balanced mixture of dried or fresh seafood, and signature additions that add a funky twist to the recipe, such as coagulated pork blood cubes or the richness of duck blood cubes.

However, the true essence of a perfect Penang curry mee lies in its broth. This crucial component sets this dish apart and makes it an unforgettable culinary adventure. While numerous recipes are available, they all share a common trait—exceptional fragrance and flavour. The broth's aroma is truly remarkable, creating a compelling sensory experience. One ingredient that's often considered optional but highly recommended is the dried chilli paste. Even a small amount of heat from this paste can elevate the broth, turning it from a fragrant delight into a flavour explosion with a delightful kick.

For those seeking the ultimate Penang curry mee experience, there are a variety of eateries to explore. While the list of favourites presented here is by no means exhaustive, it serves as an excellent starting point for anyone with a craving for that perfect bowl of tangy Penang curry noodles.

A Street of Harmony, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling.

Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling is a remarkable street that stands as a testament to the island's rich cultural diversity and spirit of harmony. This vibrant thoroughfare is home to a unique blend of religious landmarks, making it a captivating journey of faith and tolerance.

As you embark on a leisurely stroll along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, you'll encounter a sequence of awe-inspiring places of worship, each representing a different facet of Penang's multicultural tapestry.

Your journey commences with the imposing Kapitan Keling Mosque, an iconic symbol of Islamic heritage. The mosque's stunning architecture and intricate details beckon visitors to appreciate the rich history and significance of Islam in Penang. It stands proudly as a place of worship for the island's Muslim community and welcomes all to admire its grandeur.

Continuing along this street, you'll soon arrive at the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, a magnificent Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Mariamman. Its vivid colours, intricate sculptures, and elaborate artwork provide a visual feast for the eyes. The temple's presence speaks to the deep-rooted traditions of Penang's Hindu community and their devotion to their faith.

Further down the road, you'll find the Kuan Yin Temple, a serene Buddhist temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. This spiritual haven offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Penang. With its intricate architecture and serene ambience, the Kuan Yin Temple invites all to find solace and inner peace.

As you reach the end of your journey along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, you'll encounter St. George's Church, a historic Anglican church with colonial origins. This elegant place of worship has transcended its religious significance to become a symbol of unity and tolerance in Penang. Its enduring presence on this street of harmony encapsulates the island's spirit of coexistence and respect for diverse cultures.

Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling is more than just a street; it's a living testament to the power of harmony and respect that defines Penang's cultural landscape. It serves as a reminder of the coexistence of different faiths and traditions and stands as a beacon of unity for all who visit. Whether you seek spiritual inspiration, cultural exploration, or simply a peaceful walk.

Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling is a must-visit destination in Penang.

Nasi Kandar

 

Nasi kandar is a meal featuring steamed rice which can either be plain or mildly flavoured. It is served with a variety of curries and side dishes.

The rice is usually topped with eggs, meats and vegetables. The selection has expanded a lot in comparison to the old times. Now it includes fish, okra, quails prepared in herbs and spices, sambal udang (chilli prawns), Sotong (squid), cabbage, lamb and mutton, and a lot more. 

After that, all types of curries are poured over the rice and you can request a larger amount of it. This is known 'kuah banjir' (flooding) by the locals. You can ask for it to be served separately if you don't want the rice to be too wet. Either way, this helps open up a palette of flavours thus giving you a happy eating experience. 

A must in Penang. 

Roti Canai

Roti Canai is a beloved Malaysian dish known for its versatility.

It's a type of flatbread that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This delightful bread can be served with various accompaniments, from dhal (lentil curry) to meat curries, fish curries or vegan that has potato, tomato, long bean etc. 

It's a food for all, and a must-try for anyone visiting the country. Roti Canai was voted the best bread in 2023. Enjoy exploring the cultural significance and culinary delights of Roti Canai!

Hokkien Mee

Penang Hokkien Mee is a must-try when you visit Penang. But hold on, it's not the same Hokkien Mee you might find in Kuala Lumpur or Johor. It's a whole different ballgame.

First things first, let's dive into the broth. In Penang, our Hokkien Mee is all about those prawns. The broth special is made by simmering prawn heads, shells, and a touch of pork bone. It's got this slightly sweet, rich flavour, and it flaunts a vibrant orange-red hue, thanks to some chilli paste. Now, in other places like KL, Hokkien Mee takes a different path with a dark soy sauce-based sauce.

Next up, let's talk noodles. Penang's Hokkien Mee is a medley of yellow egg noodles, rice vermicelli, or even instant ramen. These noodles soak up that amazing prawn broth and trust me, it's a flavour explosion. In other regions, they typically roll with thick yellow noodles, which give you a completely different texture and taste.

And now, the toppings and condiments. In Penang, we load up on prawns (yes, again), throw in some hard-boiled eggs, a bit of water spinach (we call it 'kangkung'), bean sprouts (we love our 'taugeh'), pork slices, and a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots. Oh, and we can't forget that extra punch of excitement from some spicy sambal paste. As for garnishes, well, it can vary, and some places might charge extra for 'em.

So, Penang Hokkien Mee is like a prawn party in a bowl. In other regions, it's more about frying the noodles and bathing them in savoury soy sauce flavours.

Penang Hokkien Mee, with its prawn-powered broth and its unique combo of noodles, prawns, and toppings, proudly represents the island's culinary flair.

Don't leave Penang without trying it! 

 

Char Koay Teow, Penang

 

Char Koay Teow is a beloved Penang street food! That's a must-try when visiting the island! This delectable dish is a flavorful stir-fried noodle. It's a good blend of flavours and textures, featuring Koay Teow (flat rice noodles) cooked with various ingredients such as prawns, cockles, Chinese lap cheong sausage, eggs, bean sprouts, and chives.

Penang Char Koay Teow is just so different when it is cooked by the locals. The magic of Char Koay Teow lies in the wok's sizzling heat, which imparts a smoky, charred aroma to the dish. It's cooked with a savoury sauce that typically includes soy sauce, chilli paste, and other seasonings, giving it a delectable umami taste with a hint of spiciness. The result is a plate of noodles that's both slightly sweet and spicy, with a rich, smoky flavour.

This iconic Penang dish is typically served on a banana leaf, adding a rustic touch to the presentation. It's often garnished with a sprinkle of fresh bean sprouts and chives, further enhancing the dish's texture and crunch. You should consider never visiting Penang if you never try Char Koay Teow. It is a testament to the culinary artistry of Penang and is a must-try for food enthusiasts looking to explore the island's vibrant street food scene.

Try it! 

Penang Laksa

 

Penang Laksa is undeniably a unique and flavorful delight.

What sets Penang Laksa apart from the numerous other types of laksa found across Malaysia is its distinctive taste and preparation. Unlike the creamy, coconut milk-based laksas you might find in other regions, Penang Laksa is special. Some adore it for its bold flavours, while others find fault with its strong seafood aroma.

The heart of Penang Laksa lies in its fragrant fish-based broth, expertly infused with a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, including ginger flower (curry flower), tamarind, lemongrass, galangal, and chillies. This creates a harmonious balance of tanginess, spiciness, and umami richness that forms the base for the dish's unforgettable flavour.

Penang Laksa typically features thick rice vermicelli, providing a satisfyingly chewy texture that complements the broth perfectly. Toppings may vary, but the traditional version includes flaked mackerel fish, cucumber slices, onions, pineapple, and mint leaves, adding layers of flavour and texture to the dish.

Laksa is not complete without mentioning the soul of it, Shrimp paste (heh ko)! This elevates the dish to new heights, offering a symphony of contrasting flavours that dance on your palate.

While there are many versions of Penang Laksa throughout the state, each with its unique twist, it's a rare sight to find a Penangite who refuses to savour a bowl of Laksa. The exception might be vegetarians due to their dietary restrictions.

With all its distinct qualities, Penang Laksa is undeniably a must-try dish when you visit this food haven.

#food #yummy #transportation #Penang #Malaysia #Asia

Steam, Hotpot

Steamboat, also known as "hot pot" is a beloved communal dining experience that brings friends and family together around a bubbling pot. This eating tradition has its roots in Chinese cuisine but has been lovingly embraced and adapted in Malaysia.

Steamboat has a lot of broth selection, ranging from clear and mild to spicy and fiery. Common choices include a clear chicken or pork broth, a fiery tom yam broth, or even a rich and savoury herbal broth. 

Diners select an assortment of fresh ingredients such as thinly sliced meats (beef, chicken, or seafood), an array of vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and various fish balls. These ingredients are then cooked in the communal pot, everyone throws in their favourite food and cooks to their desired level of doneness.

What makes Malaysian steamboat particularly unique is the variety of dipping sauces that accompany the meal. From the classic peanut sauce to tangy and spicy sambal, diners can customize their sauces to match their taste preferences.

The dining process encourages a leisurely pace. It is a time to socialise, has conversations, enjoy food and best with some wine.  

The experience of a Malaysian-style steamboat is not just about the delicious food; it's about the shared experience, the laughter, and the joy of cooking and eating together. It's a delightful way to bond with loved ones over a steaming pot of goodness.

#food #yummy #holiday #transportation #Penang #Malaysia #Asia 

Loh Mee

 

Lor Mee or Loh Mee is a type of hawker food. One of my favourite dishes in Penang. It's made with noodles in a thick, sticky broth cooked from tapioca flour and egg. The dish typically includes egg noodles, vermicelli, bean sprouts, boiled egg slices, and a choice of either pork or chicken slices, depending on what the hawker offers. It's topped with crispy fried onions.

You can customize the spiciness by adding chilli and vinegar garlic paste, usually, they are given in a spoon on the side. 

Some stalls also offer an extra side dish, braised chicken feet which you can buy separately. This is the favourite among the Chinese community.

This is a must-try dish in Penang, and it's not easy to find it outside of Penang.

Wonton Noodles, Wan Tan Mee

 

Wonton noodles, a popular dish in many parts of Asia, can come in different variations, but the core ingredients often remain the same. 

The wontons, little pockets stuffed with a mix of minced meat, prawns, chives, and some seasonings. They're usually paired with thin noodles, giving you a great mix of textures and flavours. Some stores will give you an add-on of Char Siew or Fish balls.

You can enjoy this dish in different ways. In Malaysia, it is more common to serve it dry with a special secret sauce, while others offer it in a tasty broth. Each shop has its own unique recipe for the sauce.

You can find wonton noodles all across Asia, especially in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia. The Penang version, which has a slightly salty and savoury taste, is my favourite.

So, whether you call it Wan Tan Mee or wanton noodles, just enjoy the deliciousness of this classic dish.

#Penang #Malaysia

Read Beyond Your Comfort Zone for Growth

Don't always read a book that aligns with your perspective or what you agree with, You will not gain anything. Read something else. 

When you pick up a book, don't always choose one that agree with what you already know. 

Sure, it's comfy, but it won't make you smarter. Try reading different stuff that makes you think, even if it disagrees with you. It's like giving your brain a workout. This kind of reading doesn't just fill your head with facts; it makes you wiser. 

It's like opening a window to the many sides of the world, and that makes your reading adventure more exciting and valuable.

 

Rethinking Education: Beyond Grades to True Learning

 

In many educational systems worldwide, the examination system often takes centre stage, prioritizing grades over the fundamental goals of education. While grades and assessments serve an essential role in evaluating progress, they should not overshadow the larger objectives of acquiring knowledge, understanding concepts, and applying that knowledge effectively.

Genuine learning transcends the mere memorization of facts for exams. It encompasses critical thinking, problem-solving, and the practical application of knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Progressive educational philosophies advocate for a holistic approach to learning, emphasizing the development of critical thinking skills, nurturing creativity, and fostering a deeper understanding of subjects. These approaches often steer away from overemphasis on standardized testing, focusing instead on project-based learning, collaborative endeavours, and the cultivation of practical skills.

An ideal education system finds a balance between assessment and kindling a genuine passion for learning. It encourages students to explore, ask questions, and think critically, ultimately nurturing a lifelong dedication to knowledge and personal growth.

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is a dish loved by Malaysians from all walks of life. It's a simple yet delightful meal that brings together the flavours of Malaysia.

It starts with fragrant rice cooked with creamy coconut milk and pandan leaves, giving it a unique taste. The rice is like old friends, ready to welcome tasty companions.

The Unique of the dish is the spicy sambal, made with red peppers, shrimp paste, garlic, and spices. It's a symphony of spiciness that adds a kick.

You'll also find crispy anchovies and roasted peanuts for a satisfying crunch, along with fresh cucumber slices for a cool contrast.

The meal isn't complete without a softly boiled or crispy fried egg, its creamy yolk blending perfectly with the fragrant rice.

Other dishes like fiery rendang and crispy fried chicken often join the party.

Nasi Lemak is more than food; it's a journey through Malaysia's diverse culture. It's a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences.

But what makes it truly special is how it brings Malaysians together. It's the taste of home, a flavour of cherished memories, and a symbol of unity.

(This photo is vegetarian)

Curry Puffs

 

Curry puffs, also known as Karipap, have a delightful presence across Southeast Asia, with a strong influence in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. While their exact origins may be a subject of debate, one thing's for sure: Karipap is simply delicious!

These golden, flaky pastries are generously filled with a mouthwatering mixture of curried meat, creamy potatoes, and sometimes other tasty ingredients like onions, peas, or a perfectly cooked egg. Curry puffs are a cherished snack enjoyed by many, making them a must-try when you visit this region. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey!

Char Hor Fun, Tho Yuen Penang

 

In the 1960s/70s, Tho Yuen on Campbell Street in Penang was famous for its Hainanese chicken rice. The history of this dish dates back to the 1930s when Foo Say Chee, a true-blue Hainanese chef, served the tastiest Hainanese chicken rice. His restaurant, originally called Chip Seng, was taken over by Tho Yuen in the late '70s.

Eight years ago, Tho Yuen stopped serving Hainanese chicken rice, marking the end of this iconic dish on Campbell Street. The Leong family, who now runs the restaurant, offers a variety of Cantonese dishes and noodles.

Sar hor fun, a thick rice noodle originating from Guangzhou, is a popular dish in Penang, traditionally eaten for supper but now enjoyed throughout the day. It's often paired with rice vermicelli. The name "char hor fun" is also used interchangeably with "sar hor fun" due to the influence of the Hokkien population in Penang.

This shift in dietary habits reflects evolving tastes among Malaysian diners.