When it comes to Malay cuisine, we bet popular dishes such as nasi lemak, mee rebus, and satay will definitely be mentioned first. However, there is one traditional dish that has quietly gained traction in recent months: nasi kukus. The dish may look like a typical dish of rice, meat, and curry, but those in the know will recognize the flavor bomb from a mile away.
Think of the best nasi kukus in Kuala Lumpur, you will rarely be disappointed with these hearty meals, especially since you know that it will be a wallet-friendly and delicious meal.
What is Nasi Kukus?
But what exactly is it? The traditional dish originated on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, more specifically, in the state of Kelantan. It features uniquely steamed rice cooked individually in aluminum bowls on a large steamer, and the fragrant rice is usually plated steaming hot with with delicious curries and side dishes.
What makes nasi lemak a Malaysian specialty is the delicious ingredients of freshly steamed rice, a juicy protein of choice, sambal belacan, and a generous amount of curry gravy smothered over it all. The secret to a delicious nasi kukus usually boils down to three elements: the fluffy rice, aromatic gravy, and fiery sambal belacan. To some, it may seem like a simple dish,but it’s what makes the whole dish so special to enjoy on a fine day.
Can't wait to know which restaurants are there? Then keep scrolling down to give you an idea of where to go to get the best nasi kukus in Kuala Lumpur today.
If this is the first time you've heard of Nasi Kukus Tonggek, you're in for a treat. You'll find this name in various malls, but what really sets it apart is the way the food is served. When you place your order, your meal will be served in a silver jar where you can shake out the contents of the delicious Nasi Kukus to flow all over your plate. With various options to choose from chicken, fish, squid and more, you’re going to love the heat and satisfaction from the specialities after every visit.
2.Nasi Kukus Pahlawan Merah
Nasi Kukus Pahlawan Merah has more has more than four branches in Malaysia and is the favorite of its fans. The mouth-watering gravy is the reason why it is so delicious, plus the prominent ingredient: crispy fried chicken. The price is affordable and the environment is comfortable. If you are nearby, it is always a good idea to bring your family here for brunch on weekends.
3.Nasi Kukus Bro
For anyone living in Kuala Lumpur and craving a plate of delicious Nasi Kukus, Taman Keramat is the place you need to be. If you live nearby, we're sure you've heard of Nasi Kukus Bro, but what makes this restaurant so special? Known for their Grilled Lamb Nasi Kukus and Nasi Kukus Ayam Cincang Berempah, diners will say these specialties make it worth coming back every time.
4.Nasi Kukus Ilham
Ask any fans of Nasi Kukus. Most of them will list Nasi Kukus Ilham as their favorite place to taste this dish in Kuala Lumpur. The reason why this gem is so special is that there are three types of gulai gravy available from fish, chicken and beef. The best part? You can add pineapple juice (vegetable pickles) to your meal to get sweet taste. Please be sure to arrive ahead of time to avoid long queues, but we guarantee that it is worth waiting.