Malaysia is a monarchy in Southeast Asia and is surrounded by ocean. Because of the location, it's easy to figure out that many Malaysia recipes consist of rice and seafood. The culture is a bit split. (Muslims, non-Muslim, Hindu) Because of the different groups people in the area tend to eat a little bit differently than each other. Muslims in Malaysia do not eat pork, Hindus will not touch beef. Those who are not associated with either sect feel free to enjoy all the foods of the land. An important note is that the poultry is handled to measure up to halal standards. Halal, in the case of meat, means that it is not covered in blood or served bloody. The slaughter must be clean, much like kosher standards.
Rice
Rice is the most common food in Malaysian recipes. Rice is usually steamed, but also prepared in other ways. Fried rice made with pineapple is a popular dish. Coconut rice, rice noodles and rice pudding are commonly made. Rice is an economical and filling ingredient.
Poultry, Seafood and Meats
Poultry is prepared according to Halal standards, ensuring it is clean. Chicken is a very common ingredient and can be prepared in so many different ways. Chicken Satay is a savory dish that has a peanut sauce. Peanut sauce tends to be very rich and a little spicy. Curry is often added to chicken dishes as well and served over a bed of rice. Curry is usually yellow in color and very spicy. Sometimes the chicken is fried and sometimes people add it to pizza.
Beef is eaten by most of the culture, excluding the Hindus and some Buddhist monks. Beef is commonly found in stews, rice dishes and pasta recipes. Malaysian recipes also include curry beef and roasted beef. Beef also has to comply with Halal standards.
Pork is not eaten by the Muslim communities as it is a forbidden food. Much like the Old Testament in the Western church forbids Pork for culture reasons; the Muslim law also refrains from it. The pig is often stir fried or served with rice. Pork ribs are a common dish as well and very savory. Sometimes the meat is breaded and fried, but not usually. It is more likely to find pork marinated in some type of sauce.
Seafood and fish are an important staple in Malaysian recipes because it is readily available. Since Malaysia is surrounded by ocean waters fish is an economical way to feed a family. Shrimp in spicy coconut milk, curry fish and shrimp, clams and prawn pad Thai are all examples of the type of meals that come from the sea.
Spices: The Reason behind the Flavor
The reason why so many Malaysian recipes turn out so fantastic is because of the spices the people use. Tumeric, cumin and anise are what give the foods a nice smoky and curry like flavor. Cloves, peppercorns, cardamon and cinnamon are widely cooked with as well. Malaysians use a lot of strong flavors in their cooking. Fresh chili peppers and coconut have a place on the table as well.
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