Southeast Asia is a region renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary traditions. Each country offers unique flavours and dishes deeply rooted in local culture and history. This summer, embark on a culinary adventure and discover the must-try delicacies that showcase the best of Southeast Asia’s gastronomic heritage.
From the fragrant spice of tom yum goong in Thailand to the savoury adobos of the Philippines and more, tantalise your taste buds with these nine dishes that offer a true taste of the region. Get ready to explore the rich and flavourful world of Southeast Asian cuisine.
See also: Where to eat if you only have one night in Singapore, according to Singapore’s top foodies
Hainanese chicken rice, Singapore
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Hainanese chicken rice is a beloved dish in Singapore, known for its simplicity and deliciousness. Poached chicken is served with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, accompanied by a trio of dipping sauces: ginger, chilli and dark soy. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary.
Nasi lemak, Malaysia
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Considered Malaysia’s national dish, nasi lemak is a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves. It is typically served with sambal, a spicy chilli paste; fried crispy anchovies; roasted peanuts; boiled egg; and cucumber slices. Variations may include rendang, or slow-cooked meat, fried chicken or squid. This dish is a delightful mix of flavours and textures.
Adobo, Philippines
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Adobo is a quintessential Filipino dish that features meat, usually chicken or pork, marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves and black peppercorns, then slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a savoury and tangy dish that is both comforting and rich in flavour. Adobo is often served with steamed rice and is a staple in Filipino households.
Tom yum goong, Thailand
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Tom yum goong is a hot and sour Thai soup that bursts with flavour. Made with fresh ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce and crushed chilli peppers, this soup features plump shrimp and mushrooms. Its bold flavours and aromatic herbs make it a refreshing dish perfect for summer.
Banh xeo, Vietnam
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Banh xeo, a Vietnamese savoury pancake, is a crispy crepe made from rice flour, turmeric and coconut milk, filled with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts. It is typically served with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice and sugar. This dish is light, flavourful, and a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh ingredients of Vietnamese cuisine.
Amok trei, Cambodia
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Amok trei is a traditional Cambodian dish consisting of fish curry steamed in banana leaves. The curry is made with coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime and kroeung, a Cambodian spice paste. The result is a creamy, fragrant dish that showcases the delicate flavours of Cambodian cuisine. It’s often served with steamed rice.
Larb, Laos
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Larb is a popular Laotian dish made from minced meat, usually chicken, beef or pork, seasoned with lime juice, fish sauce, herbs and ground toasted rice. This dish is often accompanied by sticky rice and fresh vegetables. Larb’s combination of spicy, sour and savoury flavours makes it a refreshing and delicious option for summer.
Rendang, Indonesia
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Rendang is an Indonesian dish known for its rich and complex flavours. This slow-cooked dry curry is made with beef that is simmered in coconut milk and a mixture of lemongrass, galangal, garlic, turmeric, ginger and chillies until tender and flavourful. Rendang is often served with rice and is a dish that exemplifies the depth of Indonesian cuisine.
Mohinga, Myanmar
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Mohinga is a traditional Burmese fish soup that is often enjoyed as a breakfast dish. It is made with a fish-based broth, rice noodles, banana stems and a blend of spices. The soup is garnished with crispy fritters, boiled eggs and fresh herbs. Mohinga’s savoury and slightly tangy flavour profile makes it a comforting and satisfying dish.
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