The end of Ramadan 2022 is approaching and we’re all geared up for Hari Raya Eid! This year is special; it’s the first in two years – or since *cough* Covid *cough* hit – that we can go back to some sort of normalcy. For starters, group limits have been lifted, which means we can start expecting full open houses!
Ready to get to hosting this year? These are the classic Malay dishes that you need to make to impress.
1. Beef Rendang
Beef Rendang is the ultimate classic for Hari Raya! Cuts of beef stewed for long periods of time in a deliciously spiced dry curry, spiked with the nutty coconut flavour of kerisik – this is a unique dish unlike no other.
Have lesser time? Try this easier Chicken Rendang. With chicken you do not need the long stewing time that beef requires. You won’t get that deep caramelisation of the kerisik, but trust me, the flavours are all there!
2. Ayam Masak Merah
Ayam Masak Merah rivals in importance when it comes to Malay dishes to have during Raya! Chicken stewed in a rich tomato gravy. The chicken is peel-off-the-bone tender and delicious. This is also a lot easier to accomplish than Rendang, so if this is your first foray to Malay cooking, this is the dish you need to try.
I have two recipes for Ayam Masak Merah:
- Authentic Ayam Masak Merah – this version is what is served at special occasions like gatherings, weddings and Hari Raya Eid! This Ayam Masak Merah is spicier, and uses more dried chilli paste than tomatoes.
- Easier Ayam Masak Merah – this version is my quick and easy go-to. I used more tomatoes here, so this is a milder dish! If you love tomatoes then this is the recipe for you.
3. Lemak Sayur Lodeh
Sayur Masak Lodeh is a light vegetable curry that is a staple during Raya. This is the classic vegetable dish that can help temper all the heavy dishes featured on the table… somewhat. This has rich coconut milk in it too, which complements all of the other dishes. What can I say? We love our rich food!
4. Sambal Goreng
Sambal Goreng is personally my favourite dish for Raya! While everyone goes for the rendang, I dive in head first in Sambal Goreng first. Bite-sized tofu pieces stir fried in an aromatic, spicy sambal base, delicious.
This is that one dish that you can easily make vegan too. I had a vegetarian friend back in school, and we served her this. She said it was the best vegan dish she’s ever had!
5. Ayam Goreng
Fried Chicken is always a winner, no matter the occasion. Try my crispy, aromatic Ayam Goreng right here. This is ADDICTIVE and a crowd-pleaser so a quick warning: make extras!
6. Sambal Udang
Want to have some surf amongst these turfs? Make some Sambal Udang!
I always peel my prawns or shrimp, but if you’re looking to serve this for guests, how about keep the shells on! It will look a lot more impressive for those Instagram posts.
If you want to try another seafood sambal dish, try using squid for this Sambal Sotong.
7. Nasi Minyak
Besides lontong and ketupat, Nasi Minyak is the carbohydrate of choice! This is glossy, aromatic rice cooked with dry spices. Check out my easy rice cooker recipe right here.
8. Pulut Kuning
Want to level up your carb options? Try making Pulut Kuning or Yellow Glutinous Rice! Reserved mostly special occasions such as weddings, make your guests feel extra special when you serve them a plate of this instead.
9. Acar Nonya
Acar Nonya Awak are levelled-up pickled vegetables! These pickled vegetables are refreshingly tangy, sweet and savoury, tossed in a spiced rempah base. Not only does it whet the appetite, it cleanses the palate. I have to have some Acar during Hari Raya, it helps cut on all the rich flavours of everything else.
10. Sambal Tumis
My Sambal Nasi Lemak is not just for Nasi Lemak! It’s a great accompaniment to our Malay dishes too.
11. Serunding Kelapa
Serunding is a condiment – much like Sambal – that is a must-have during Hari Raya. Toasted shredded coconut stir fried with an aromatic spice base and palm sugar, until it caramelises and dries to look almost like meat floss… serunding is the perfect topping for your carbs!
I have not attempted a recipe for it yet since fortunately, it’s easily available ready-made.
12. Mee Goreng
A bit of a cheat… but Mee Goreng is a favourite one-pot all-encompassing dish! Mee Goreng or Fried Noodles are noodles stir fried in a rich, spicy paste. You can add any protein of choice and it is that dish that anyone will love!
Try my Seafood Mee Goreng here.
Leave a Reply