TV presenter Poh Ling Yeow showcases best of Malaysia
Join foodie, author, television presenter, and MasterChef sensation Poh Ling Yeow on an amazing journey from Australia back to her birthplace – the bustling and sophisticated capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. Explore with her the amazing sights, sensational shopping in markets and malls, and a vast array of delectable dishes served sky-high and on the streets.
In the first episode, Poh begins her inspiring journey from Australia to Kuala Lumpur. On her way to check-in, she shares why her birthplace is such an exciting place to visit and how you can enjoy a truly Malaysian experience.
Watch the 5-episode video series here.
In December last year, Poh created her signature dish of Nyonya Chicken Curry for Malaysia Airlines. She shares her thoughts about the dish and its significance as a Malaysian specialty:
Why did you choose Nyonya Chicken Curry with Roti Canai as your Malaysian Airlines Signature Dish?
It's such a definitive Malaysian dish and a definite crowd pleaser. Curry chicken is so loved in my family that is has a permanent, albeit out-of-place position, next to the ham on the Christmas table every year!
Why are you so passionate about Malaysian cuisine?
Because the fusion of Malay, Indian and Chinese cultures creates such an incredibly diverse, vibrant and unique cuisine unlike no other in the world. It's also a very unpretentious, inclusive food culture – there's no such thing as an in-crowd and the food is amazingly cheap, so everyone can afford to eat out.
Which ingredient is an absolute must in your kitchen?
Pandan. The heady aroma of grassy jasmine that this leaf imparts into food is totally unique and very versatile. Dubbed Southeast Asian vanilla, it's used as a staple in sticky Malaysian desserts (perfect with coconut and palm sugar) but is equally delicious in savoury food. Throw into rice to accentuate the jasmine perfume or into curries to add another complex layer of fragrance. A whiff of this is pure comfort for me.
Which is your favourite restaurant in Malaysia?
I rarely go to restaurants because the street food is so exciting. I always make a beeline for an assam laksa vendor the minute I land!
And which is your go-to Malaysian restaurant in Australia?
PappaRich because there's so much choice. It's fun, tasty, fast and cheap – everything hawker food is about.
To discover more about Kuala Lumpur and to book flights, visit malaysiaairlines.com
