Why is Malaysian food called the melting pot of cultures?

Answer 1

The basis for the classification of Malaysian, Chinese and Indians can be traced back to the British colonial era when a large number of people migrated from China and India to settle down in Malaysia. So even to this day the influences of these races play a major role in the preparation and techniques of the cuisine in its own ways. Malaysia is a tropical country and has a sunny weather throughout the year so people generally consume fruits and vegetables in abundance while also consuming meat and seafood that are reasonably priced and available. The eclectic dietary approach not only maintains the right balance of nutrition and flavour but also caters to all ethnic races from across Asia to savour different kinds of food at one place. So if you were to be from Thailand, China, India, Korea or Japan, finding your kind of food will not be an arduous task in Malaysia. In fact, it will leave you craving for more and explore the many facets of this cuisine. The northern parts of Malaysia have incorporated Thai flavour into their dishes due to the migration of Thai people and also due to marriages of Malaysians with Thai people. The use of chilli sauce and bird's eye chilli in many Malaysian dishes adds a touch of heat and spice, something that borrows from the Thai culture. In fact, the use of coconut milk is also influenced by Thai culture. Halal food is one of the most common foods available in Malaysia. A lot of food influenced by the Islamic culture is widely available throughout the country and festive feasts during id and Hari raya are also enjoyed. The influence of Indian cuisine can be seen in the form of cooking techniques like tempering spices in oil and also frying the food to enhance the flavour. Many vegetables from India like eggplants, mustard and curry leaves are often used in Malaysian dishes today. The banana leaf meal is quite popular in Malaysia. Other dishes include chapatti, naan, roti that are quite common in Malaysian cuisine. The confluence of Indian and Malaysian food is called Mamak food, which cannot be found in India. Dishes like teh tarik, murtabak and Rojak are some of the dishes that are influenced by Indian cuisine.