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Malaysia is famed for its rich and diverse cuisine, which has been influenced by its many different cultural groups. What is less well-known, is the variety and uniqueness of Malay drinks.
From Teh Tarik and Kopi O, and from Ambarella Juice to the alcoholic Tuak, there is enough variety in Malaysian drinks to keep your thirst quenched and taste buds tingling.
Here are 17 Malaysian drinks to try on your next Malaysian adventure.
17 Unique Malaysian Drinks to Quench your Thirst
Teh Tarik (Pulled Tea)
Malaysians are passionate about their tea, and Teh Tarik is no exception. This delicious tea is made by pulling brewed tea back and forth between two containers until it is frothy and has a rich flavor. But what exactly is Teh Tarik, and where did it come from?
Teh Tarik has its origins in Indian tea culture. “Tarik” means “pull,” which refers to the method of making the tea. This method was brought to Malaysia by Indian immigrants in the 1950s, and it quickly caught on with locals. Malaysia is now known for its unique take on this beloved beverage.
When made properly, Teh Tarik has a smooth texture and a slight sweetness that comes from the addition of condensed milk. The flavor of the tea itself is rich and robust, with notes of cardamom and clove. This signature drink can be found at any Malaysian café or restaurant, and it’s a must-try for anyone visiting the country.
I love having a cup of Teh Tarik with Indian/Malay food.
Kopi: Malaysia’s Traditional Coffee
Malaysian coffee, or kopi, is a dark-roasted coffee that is traditionally served with condensed milk. Kopi is usually brewed with Robusta beans, which are known for their higher caffeine content.
Kopi is made by roasting Robusta coffee beans over an open fire. The beans are roasted until they are nearly black, and then they are ground into a fine powder. To make a cup of kopi, the coffee powder is combined with boiling water and condensed milk.
The resulting cup of kopi is thick, creamy, and sweet. The smoky flavor of the coffee beans comes through in the final product, and the high caffeine content gives kopi a bit of a kick.
Coffee was first introduced to Malaysia in the late 1600s by Dutch traders. however, it was not until the early 1900s that kopi began to gain popularity.
In the 1920s, a new way of making coffee was introduced to Malaysia by Hainanese immigrants from China. This method involved roasting the beans over an open fire, which gave the coffee its signature smoky flavor.
Kopi quickly became popular among Malaysians of all backgrounds, and it remains a staple beverage in the country to this day. Kopi can be found at nearly any coffee shop, food stall, or restaurant in Malaysia, and it is always served piping hot or “pulled.”
Kopi comes in many ways, a few examples:
- Kopi: The default cup of kopi is made with sweetened condensed milk.
- Kopi C: With unsweetened evaporated milk and sugar.
- Kopi Kosong: Unsweetened black coffee
- Kopi C Kosong: With evaporated milk, no sugar.
- Kopi O: No milk, with sugar.
- Kopi O Kosong: No milk, no sugar.
- Kopi Ta Bao: To-go
Further Reading: Wedang Jahe: A Simple Recipe for Indonesia’s Secret Elixer
Milo Dinosaur
Milo Dinosaur is a Milo milkshake that is popular in Malaysia. It is made by blending Milo powder with milk, sugar, and ice, with chocolate syrup or condensed milk depending on the richness or sweetness desired.
No-one seems to have an accurate take on where Milo Dinosaur gets its name from and the drink is often served at parties and gatherings, and it is a favorite among children.
While Milo Dinosaur is most commonly found in Malaysia, it has also gained popularity in other Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Indonesia.
Try The Roaming Fork Milo Dinosaur recipe?
Air Mata Kucing
Air Mata Kucing, which translates to “cat’s tears”, is a Malaysian drink made from longan, monk fruit, sugar, and water.
The drink is said to have originated in the state of Kelantan and is often served during festivals and special occasions.
The longan fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a refreshing beverage. Monkfruit, on the other hand, is a low-calorie sweetener that provides a guilt-free way to enjoy the sweetness of Air Mata Kucing.
Sugar and water round out the ingredients list, and the end result is a delicious and healthy drink that can be enjoyed by all.
Air Bandung
I found this drink to be both refreshing and sweet, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up while sightseeing.
Air Bandung is a popular Malaysian drink made with rose syrup and evaporated milk. The drink gets its name from the fact that it is often served iced, or “air-ed.”
Air Bandung is usually very sweet, but it can also be made with less sugar for those who prefer a less sugary drink. The rose syrup gives the drink a light pink color and a floral flavor, while the evaporated milk provides a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Air Bandung is typically served over ice, making it a refreshing treat on hot and humid days. It is also common to see Air Bandung served with shaved ice or ice cream, making it even more delicious.
Sirap Selasih (Rose Syrup with Holy Basil Seeds)
Sirap Selasih is a refreshing Malaysian drink made with rose syrup and holy basil seeds. The syrup is made by boiling water and sugar until it thickens, then adding rose essence and food coloring.
The holy basil seeds are added just before serving, giving the drink a slightly chewy texture. Sirap Selasih is usually served cold, making it a perfect summer treat.
The sweet, floral flavor of the rose syrup is offset by the earthy taste of the basil seeds, making for a refreshing and unique beverage.
Soursop Juice
Soursop juice is made from the fruit of the soursop tree and has a sweet and sour flavor similar to pineapple or grapefruit juice.
The juice is usually light green in color and has a slightly sour taste. It is often served over ice or mixed with other fruit juices to create a cooler drink.
Soursop juice is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for those looking for a refreshing beverage. The juice is also believed to have medicinal properties and is sometimes used as a natural remedy for various health conditions.
Green Apple with Asam Boi
Green apple with Asam boi is a refreshing and unique drink that is popular in Malaysia. The drink is made with green apples, Asam boi (a type of sour plum), and sugar.
The apples are peeled and then stewed with the Asam boi and sugar. The mixture is then strained and served over ice.
Green apple drink with Asam boi is a delicious and healthy way to stay cool on a hot day. The tartness of the green apples pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar, and the asam boi provides a lovely sour plum flavor.
This refreshing drink is another one of the Malay drinks that is an excellent thirst quencher.
Ambarella Juice
Ambarella juice is a refreshing drink made from the fruit of the ambarella tree.
The small, greenish-yellow fruit has a sour taste and is often used in Southeast Asian cuisine. When made into juice, it is usually diluted with water or milk and sweetened with sugar.
Ambarella juice is rich in Vitamin C and other nutrients, making it a healthy choice for those looking for an alternative to sugary drinks.
It is also said to have digestive benefits and can help to relieve stomach upsets.
Barley Juice
Barley juice is a popular drink in Malaysia, made from barley and water. It is said to be healthy and refreshing and is often drunk by athletes and people who are looking to improve their health.
The exact recipe for barley juice varies depending on the region, but it typically includes sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Some people also add ginger, pandan leaves, or other spices for flavor.
While barley juice is traditionally made with fresh barley, many modern recipes call for using barley powder or extract. This makes it easier to prepare the drink, as well as giving it a more consistent flavor.
Nutmeg Juice
Nutmeg juice is a popular drink in Malaysia that is made from nutmeg fruit.
The fruits are first boiled and then squeezed to extract the juice. Sugar, lemon juice, and water are then added to the juice to create a sweet and refreshing beverage.
Nutmeg juice is often served iced or chilled, making it a perfect refresher on a hot day.
In addition to being delicious, nutmeg juice is also said to have medicinal properties. Some believe that it can help to relieve stomachaches and indigestion, while others believe that it can help to boost the immune system.
Water Chestnut Juice
Water chestnut juice is a refreshing drink and another one of my favorite Malay drinks.
It is made from the fruit of the water chestnut plant, which is native to Southeast Asia. The fruit is harvested and then juiced, resulting in a light, refreshing beverage.
Water chestnut juice is low in calories and fat, and it is a good source of vitamin C. It also contains antioxidant compounds that may help to protect against disease.
The juice has a slightly sweet taste and a slightly gritty texture, due to the presence of small pieces of the water chestnut fruit. Water chestnut juice is typically served chilled, and it can be enjoyed on its own or with Malaysian Food.
Longan Juice
Longan juice was probably my favorite go-to drink to help refresh me during the many hours of walking the streets in Malaysia.
The drink is made from the fruit of the longan tree, which has a white, meaty flesh that is sweet and juicy.
Longan juice is made by blending the flesh of the fruit with water and sugar. The resulting drink is refreshing and deliciously sweet. It is often served over ice or mixed with other fruit juices to create a refreshing summertime drink.
Longan fruit is often confused with lychees and rambutan. I have written the perfect side-by-side comparison.
Lychee Juice
Lychee juice is a popular drink in Malaysia, made from the tropical fruit of the lychee tree. The lychee is a small, red fruit with a delicate, sweet flavor.
Lychee juice is usually made by blending fresh lychees with water and sugar. It can also be made with lychee pulp, which is available in cans or bottles.
Lychee juice is often served chilled or over ice, and it makes a refreshing and flavorful summer drink.
Dragon Fruit and Lemon Juice
Dragon fruit is a type of cactus that is native to Malaysia. The fruit is round or oblong, and it has thick, leathery skin that is pink, red, or purple.
The flesh of the fruit is either white or purple and it contains black seeds. Dragon fruit is often used in juices and smoothies.
When combined with lemon juice, it makes a refreshing drink that is full of vitamins and antioxidants.
Dragon fruit is a good source of Vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system. It also contains fiber, which helps to promote digestive health.
Alcoholic Malay Drinks
Tuak
Tuak is a popular alcoholic Malay Drinks, made from the fermented sap of various palm trees, such as date, palmyra, and coconut palm trees.
It is usually distilled to create a clear spirit, although it can also be left un-distilled, which results in a milky white liquor.
Tuak is traditionally served in small bowls or glasses and is often accompanied by snacks such as nuts or fruits.
The alcohol content of tuak can vary widely, depending on how it is prepared, but it is typically around 15% ABV.
Lihing – Rice Wine
Lihing is a traditional Malaysian drink that is made from rice wine and various herbs and spices. The most common ingredients in Lihing are rice, cooked glutinous rice, yeast, water, and sugar.
Lihing is typically served in small glasses or bowls, and it is often used as a digestif or nightcap. The drink has a strong, unique flavor that is often described as earthy, woody, or musky.
Lihing is said to have a number of health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing stress, and boosting immunity.
Summary of Malaysian Drinks
Malay drinks are a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy the country’s many different fruits and flavors.
From white coffee to Teh Tarik, grass jelly drink to monk fruit and apple or lime juice, the variety and uniqueness of these delicious drinks is amazing.
These drinks are not only delicious, but they also offer many health benefits, such as boosting immunity, reducing stress, and aiding digestion.
So next time you’re in Malaysia, be sure to try one of these unique and flavorful drinks!
FAQ for Malay Drinks
What are the Health Benefits of Holy Basil Seeds?
Holy basil seeds have long been prized for their health-promoting properties. These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, and iron.
They also contain a compound called eugenol, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Studies have shown that holy basil seeds can help to lower blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and protect against stress and anxiety.
Additionally, they may help to boost cognitive performance and enhance brain function. With so many potential benefits, it’s no wonder that holy basil seeds are often referred to as a “superfood.”
Whether you add them to your smoothie or sprinkle them on your salad, incorporating holy basil seeds into your diet is a simple way to promote overall health and well-being.
What is the difference between Evaporated Milk and Condensed Milk?
Evaporated milk and condensed milk are both shelf-stable dairy products that have had water removed from them. However, they are used in different ways and have different textures and flavors.
Condensed milk is much thicker and sweeter, due to the addition of sugar during the evaporation process. It is often used in baking or as a topping for desserts.
Evaporated milk, on the other hand, has a more neutral flavor and is often used in savory dishes or as a base for soups and sauces.
What is sugar syrup?
Sugar syrup is a sugar-based liquid used to sweeten and preserve food. It is made by dissolving sugar in water, and sometimes includes other ingredients such as corn syrup, molasses, or flavoring, and is used in any number of Malaysian Drinks.
What is Grass Jelly?
Grass jelly is a popular Asian dessert that is made from a type of plant called mesona. The leaves of the mesona plant are brewed into a tea, which is then cooled and gelatinized to create a jelly-like substance.