16 Must-Try Indian Dishes in Malaysia: A Guide to the Best Indian Food and Cuisine

Last updated on April 26th, 2025 at 05:27 am

If you’re a fan of rich flavors and aromatic spices, you’re in for a treat with the must-try Indian dishes in Malaysia. This guide dives into the heart of Malaysian Indian cuisine, highlighting popular dishes that have become local favorites. From savory curries to fragrant rice dishes, many of which are vegan or vegetarian, we’ll explore the best Indian food to try while visiting Malaysia. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just discovering Indian cuisine, this guide is your gateway to experiencing the most beloved Indian dishes Malaysia has to offer.

1. Roti Canai

Roti Canai is a quintessential Malaysian Indian flatbread, known for its crisp, flaky texture on the outside and soft, chewy layers inside. This versatile dish is typically served with a side of curry or lentil soup (dal), making it the perfect companion for scooping up rich, flavorful sauces. The mild taste of Roti Canai allows it to pair well with a variety of dishes, and its popularity comes from its simple yet satisfying nature. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Roti Canai is a must-try when exploring Malaysian Indian cuisine.

2. Naan

Naan is another beloved Indian flatbread, but unlike Roti Canai, it’s traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, giving it a distinct charred flavor and a pillowy soft texture. Naan is often brushed with butter or garlic, adding a rich, savory taste that complements curries and gravies. Its versatility and ability to soak up sauces make it a staple in Indian dining, and it’s particularly popular in Malaysia for its hearty, satisfying qualities.

3. Biryani

Biryani is a fragrant rice dish that’s an absolute feast for the senses. Cooked with aromatic spices like saffron, cardamom, and cloves, and typically combined with meat or vegetables, Biryani is known for its complex, layered flavors. The rice is often cooked with marinated chicken, lamb, or vegetables, which absorb the rich spices, creating a dish that’s both savory and aromatic. Biryani’s popularity in Malaysia comes from its hearty nature and the vibrant, colorful presentation that makes it a star at any meal.

4. Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken is a dish that showcases the magic of the tandoor oven. Marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, the chicken is then roasted at high temperatures, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a smoky, slightly charred exterior. The bright red color of Tandoori Chicken is iconic, and its bold, spicy flavor is a hit among those who love robust, fiery dishes. This dish is a popular choice in Malaysia for its distinctive taste and the perfect balance of heat and flavor.

5. Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a creamy, tomato-based curry that has won hearts around the world. The chicken, first marinated and cooked in a tandoor, is then simmered in a rich, spiced gravy made with tomatoes, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices. The result is a dish that’s slightly tangy, mildly spicy, and incredibly comforting. In Malaysia, Chicken Tikka Masala is cherished for its smooth, velvety sauce that pairs wonderfully with naan or rice.

6. Chicken 65

Chicken 65 is a fiery dish that packs a punch with every bite. This South Indian specialty consists of small pieces of chicken marinated in a mixture of spices, then deep-fried until crispy. The flavor profile is bold, with a blend of spices that includes chili powder, turmeric, and curry leaves, giving the dish its signature heat and a slightly tangy taste. Popular as an appetizer or snack, Chicken 65 is a go-to for those who enjoy spicy, flavorful bites.

7. Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a vegetarian delight that combines soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a smooth spinach gravy. The dish is rich in both flavor and nutrients, with the earthy taste of spinach perfectly complementing the mild, creamy paneer. Palak Paneer is a popular choice in Malaysia for its healthy ingredients and balanced flavors, offering a satisfying option for vegetarians and a delicious way to enjoy greens.

8. Bhindi Masala

Bhindi Masala is a flavorful North Indian dish made with okra, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This semi-dry curry has a unique, slightly tangy flavor from the tomatoes, balanced by the earthy taste of okra. Bhindi Masala is often served with roti or rice, making it a versatile dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Its popularity in Malaysia stems from its fresh ingredients and the way it showcases the vibrant flavors of Indian spices.

9. Chole Bhature

Chole Bhature is a classic Punjabi dish that pairs spicy chickpea curry (chole) with deep-fried bread (bhature). The combination of the soft, fluffy bhature with the rich, tangy chickpea curry is simply irresistible. This dish is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch and is popular in Malaysia for its bold flavors and satisfying combination of textures. The crispiness of the bhature complements the spiciness of the chole, making it a beloved dish for those who love indulgent, flavorful meals.

10. Lamb Rogan Josh

Lamb Rogan Josh is a rich, aromatic curry that’s a staple of Kashmiri cuisine. The dish features tender pieces of lamb simmered in a gravy made with yogurt, tomatoes, and a blend of spices including cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The result is a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting, with a deep, complex taste that’s slightly tangy and spicy. In Malaysia, Lamb Rogan Josh is popular for its luxurious taste and the way it showcases the rich flavors of Indian spices.

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11. Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s a favorite among vegetarians. Soft cubes of paneer are cooked in a rich, tomato-based sauce made with butter, cream, and a blend of spices. The result is a dish that’s mildly sweet, slightly tangy, and incredibly comforting. Paneer Butter Masala is popular in Malaysia for its smooth, velvety texture and the way it pairs beautifully with naan or rice.

12. Chana Masala

Chana Masala is a hearty chickpea curry that’s full of flavor. The chickpeas are simmered in a spicy tomato-based gravy infused with cumin, coriander, and garam masala, creating a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Chana Masala is especially popular among vegetarians in Malaysia, offering a protein-rich meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Its robust flavors and satisfying texture make it a must-try dish for anyone exploring Indian cuisine.

13. Vada

Vada is a savory fried snack that’s both crispy and delicious. Made from a spiced lentil batter, vada is typically shaped into doughnut-like rings and deep-fried until golden brown. The result is a crunchy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior that’s mildly spiced and incredibly moreish. Vada is often served with chutneys or sambar (a spicy lentil soup), making it a popular snack or breakfast item in Malaysia. Its simplicity and satisfying taste have made it a staple in Indian cuisine.

14. Dal Tadka

Dal Tadka is a comforting lentil dish that’s both simple and flavorful. The dish is made by cooking lentils until soft, then tempering them with a mixture of cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and spices. The result is a dish that’s warm, hearty, and full of flavor, with a rich, aromatic taste that’s both satisfying and nourishing. In Malaysia, Dal Tadka is popular for its comforting nature and the way it pairs well with rice or roti, making it a staple in Indian cuisine.

15. Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a simple yet delightful dish featuring potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi) tossed in a blend of mild spices. The dish is known for its earthy flavors, with the spices enhancing the natural taste of the vegetables. Aloo Gobi is often enjoyed with roti or rice and is popular in Malaysia for its simplicity and the way it showcases the versatility of everyday ingredients. It’s a comforting, homestyle dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

16. Veg Jalfrezi

Veg Jalfrezi is a vibrant and flavorful dish made with a mix of fresh vegetables cooked in a rich, spiced gravy. The dish is known for its bold flavors, with the vegetables absorbing the spices to create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Veg Jalfrezi is popular in Malaysia for its colorful presentation and the way it offers a delicious, vegetarian option that’s full of flavor. It’s a great choice for those who love a dish with a bit of heat and plenty of texture.

Best Indian Food Eating Experience: Banana Leaf

A must-try when exploring the best Indian food in Malaysia is the authentic banana leaf eating experience. This traditional way of serving food involves a variety of flavorful dishes—such as rice, curries, pickles, and vegetables—beautifully arranged on a fresh banana leaf. The leaf itself enhances the aromas and flavors of the food, making every bite a sensory delight. Diners typically enjoy this meal by eating with their hands, which is believed to enhance the taste and connect you more deeply with the food. This unique dining experience is popular not just for the delicious food, but also for the cultural immersion it offers, giving you a true taste of Indian culinary heritage in Malaysia.

Conclusion of Popular Indian dishes in Malaysia

Indulging in Indian food in Malaysia is a culinary delight you won’t want to miss. The vibrant flavors of dishes like banana leaf rice, roti canai, and rich curries highlight the best of Malaysian Indian cuisine. Whether you’re navigating a guide to Malaysian Indian food or seeking the top recommendations, each bite offers a unique taste of the cultural blend that makes Malaysian Indian dishes so special. From street food stalls to fine dining, the best Indian food in Malaysia ensures a delicious journey through the country’s rich culinary landscape. Be sure to check out my full Malaysia Travel Guide Recommendations.