8 Best Malaysian Cookbooks & Recipe Books

Discover the ultimate solution to your quest for the best Malaysian cookbooks! Explore a delectable array of recipe books that will transport you to the vibrant flavors of Malaysia. With simple English words and engaging storytelling, these cookbooks provide an educational and actionable experience. Indulge in mouthwatering recipes, elevate your culinary skills, and impress your friends with authentic Malaysian dishes. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other!

Top 8 Malaysian Cookbooks

Here is the list of Malaysian Cookbooks

  • Sambal Shiok: The Malaysian Cookbook by Mandy Yin – Best Overall
  • Malaysia: Recipes from a Family Kitchen by Ping Coombes – Editor’s Choice
  • The Malaysian Kitchen: 150 Recipes for Simple Home Cooking by Christina Arokiasamy – Best for Home Cooking
  • Recipes are for Sharing by Kalsom Taib with Ungku Balkis Ungku Abdul Hamid and Ungku Marhamah Shereen Ungku Abdul Hamid – Best for Sharing
  • Amazing Malaysian: Recipes for Vibrant Malaysian Home Cooking by Norman Musa – Best for Vibrant Flavors
  • Authentic Recipes from Malaysia by Wendy Hutton – Best for Authenticity
  • My Rendang Isn’t Crispy: And Other Favourite Malaysian Dishes by Nazlina Hussin – Best for Traditional Dishes
  • The Best of Chef Wan by Chef Wan – Best for Variety

Sambal Shiok: The Malaysian Cookbook by Mandy Yin

Sambal Shiok: The Malaysian Cookbook by Mandy Yin

“Sambal Shiok: The Malaysian Cookbook by Mandy Yin” is the ultimate guide to Malaysian cuisine, earning the title of Best Overall. This brilliant collection features over 90 accessible recipes, including those handed down from Mandy’s mother and her own creations for her award-winning London restaurant. The cookbook showcases the rich diversity of Malaysian food, which reflects the country’s unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Peranakan, South Indian, and indigenous influences. From her signature curry laksa to beef rendang, Mandy’s recipes are perfect for weekday family meals, dinner parties, or celebrations. With its evocative look at Malaysian food culture and easy-to-follow instructions, this cookbook is a must-have for anyone looking to explore the irresistible flavors of Malaysian cuisine.

Malaysia: Recipes from a Family Kitchen by Ping Coombes

Malaysia: Recipes from a Family Kitchen by Ping Coombes

“Malaysia: Recipes from a Family Kitchen” by Ping Coombes is our Editor’s Choice, and for good reason. This cookbook is a treasure trove of Malaysian cuisine, with over 100 authentic and approachable recipes inspired by Ping’s mother and the vibrant street markets of her hometown, Ipoh. The book offers a comprehensive introduction to Malaysian essentials, from pantry staples to condiments, oils, and sauces. With chapters covering small plates, salads, rice, noodles, meat, poultry, fish, seafood, vegetables, and even Malaysian twists on classic European dishes, there’s something for everyone. Dive into the world of Malaysian flavors with this delightful cookbook.

The Malaysian Kitchen: 150 Recipes for Simple Home Cooking by Christina Arokiasamy

The Malaysian Kitchen: 150 Recipes for Simple Home Cooking by Christina Arokiasamy

“The Malaysian Kitchen: 150 Recipes for Simple Home Cooking” by Christina Arokiasamy is the go-to choice for home cooks looking to explore Malaysian cuisine. Awarded as the Best for Home Cooking, this cookbook features 150 mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for everyday meals and special occasions alike. Drawing from the diverse culinary influences of Malaysia, including Thai, Indian, Chinese, and Portuguese traditions, Christina’s recipes are both authentic and approachable. With a focus on flavor and easy-to-follow instructions, this cookbook is an excellent resource for anyone looking to bring the vibrant tastes of Malaysia into their home kitchen.

Recipes are for Sharing by Kalsom Taib with Ungku Balkis Ungku Abdul Hamid and Ungku Marhamah Shereen Ungku Abdul Hamid

Recipes are for Sharing by Kalsom Taib with Ungku Balkis Ungku Abdul Hamid and Ungku Marhamah Shereen Ungku Abdul Hamid

“Recipes are for Sharing” by Kalsom Taib with Ungku Balkis Ungku Abdul Hamid and Ungku Marhamah Shereen Ungku Abdul Hamid is a delightful cookbook that truly lives up to its name, earning the award for Best for Sharing. This collection features 200 Malaysian recipes that are simple and speedy to make, elevating everyday eating into no-fuss feasts. The book covers a wide range of dishes from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Bugis, Javanese, Minang, and Nyonya cultures, as well as Western-influenced family favorites. With recipes that cater to cooks of all levels, this cookbook is perfect for sharing and enjoying delicious Malaysian meals with family and friends.

Amazing Malaysian: Recipes for Vibrant Malaysian Home Cooking by Norman Musa

Amazing Malaysian: Recipes for Vibrant Malaysian Home Cooking by Norman Musa

“Amazing Malaysian: Recipes for Vibrant Malaysian Home Cooking” by Norman Musa is a colorful and flavorful cookbook that has earned the title of Best for Vibrant Flavors. With over 100 recipes, this book showcases the incredible diversity of Malaysian cuisine, featuring dishes that are both healthy and delicious. Norman Musa’s recipes are inspired by his mother’s kitchen and the bustling street markets of Penang, ensuring authenticity and a true taste of Malaysia. From crispy soft shell crabs to prawn curry laksa, this cookbook is perfect for those who love bold flavors and want to bring the vibrant taste of Malaysian home cooking to their kitchen.

Authentic Recipes from Malaysia by Wendy Hutton

Authentic Recipes from Malaysia by Wendy Hutton

“Authentic Recipes from Malaysia” by Wendy Hutton is a must-have for those seeking the Best for Authenticity in Malaysian cookbooks. This collection features over 60 easy-to-follow recipes that showcase the diverse flavors of Malaysia, drawing from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European culinary influences. With detailed descriptions of Malaysian cooking methods and ingredients, this cookbook enables you to recreate the exotic flavors of Malaysia in your own kitchen. From soups and salads to rice and noodle dishes, Wendy Hutton’s recipes are a true testament to the authenticity of Malaysian cuisine.

My Rendang Isn’t Crispy: And Other Favourite Malaysian Dishes by Nazlina Hussin

My Rendang Isn't Crispy: And Other Favourite Malaysian Dishes by Nazlina Hussin

“My Rendang Isn’t Crispy: And Other Favourite Malaysian Dishes” by Nazlina Hussin is a delightful cookbook that has earned the award for Best for Traditional Dishes. This collection features a variety of authentic Malaysian recipes, inspired by Nazlina’s family background in the restaurant and catering business. The cookbook is a testament to her passion for Malaysian cuisine and her journey from a home cook to a renowned chef, even gaining recognition on MasterChef UK. With a focus on traditional dishes and flavors, this cookbook is perfect for those who want to explore the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia.

The Best of Chef Wan by Chef Wan

The Best of Chef Wan by Chef Wan

“The Best of Chef Wan” by Chef Wan is a fantastic cookbook that has been awarded Best for Variety. This collection showcases the diverse flavors of Malaysian cuisine, with over 138 recipes that cover a wide range of dishes, including curries, stir-fries, braises, soups, noodle and rice dishes, as well as snacks and desserts. Chef Wan, Malaysia’s Culinary Ambassador, shares his favorite Asian recipes in this book, which are perfect for those who love variety and want to explore the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia. With easy-to-follow instructions and a focus on diverse flavors, this cookbook is an excellent addition to any kitchen.

Final Say So!

In this culinary journey through the best Malaysian cookbooks, we’ve uncovered a treasure trove of flavors, from the rich diversity of “Sambal Shiok” to the authentic family recipes in “Malaysia: Recipes from a Family Kitchen.” Whether you’re seeking simplicity with “The Malaysian Kitchen” or a feast to share with “Recipes are for Sharing,” these cookbooks promise a tantalizing taste of Malaysia’s vibrant cuisine. Norman Musa’s “Amazing Malaysian” bursts with colorful, healthy options, while Wendy Hutton’s “Authentic Recipes from Malaysia” brings forth the true essence of Malaysian cooking. Nazlina Hussin’s journey from home cook to renowned chef in “My Rendang Isn’t Crispy” offers a glimpse into the heart of traditional dishes. Lastly, Chef Wan’s “The Best of Chef Wan” offers an array of dishes reflecting Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage. Embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other!

Renee Searcy

Hi! Iโ€™m Renee. From a young age, Iโ€™ve been enchanted by the flavors, aromas, and the art of cooking. My journey has taken me from my familyโ€™s kitchen to working with some of the most talented chefs and culinary experts in Atlanta, GA, and beyond.

Leave a Comment