Where the celebrity chef goes for a real taste of Malaysia, locally and in London
Chef Norman Musa has dedicated his life to spreading his love for Malaysian cuisine all over the world. The Penang-born migrated to the UK for his university studies and has since carved an impressive culinary career, cooking for celebrities, running his own restaurants, writing cookbooks, and even hosting culinary tours to Malaysia.
His recipe for Rendang Beef Wellington made the pages of Platinum Jubilee Cookbook that marks the 70th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the crown. Norman will release his second cookbook, Bowlful, celebrating the diverse flavours of Southeast Asia.
See also: A Taste of Home: Abby Lee of London's Mambow Shares Her Memories of Malaysia
What do you miss most about Malaysia?
Enjoying outdoor street food with family and friends at any time.
What are the dishes that you miss the most?
I'm a big seafood fan—grilled fish and seafood are my favourites, served with good chilli sambal and tamarind dip. I always miss Ais Tingkap at Chowrasta Market in Penang is my favourite. It's a mixture of rose syrup, coconut flesh and water with basil seeds—such a refreshing drink. My late parents always bought it en route to my late grandma’s house in Sungai Gelugor.
What is the first dish you eat when you return and where do you go for it?
When I fly to Penang from London, my sister knows that I would request for a stopover at the Yong Tau Fu Bagan Ajam in Butterworth. It is a stall in food court that is now run by my ex-schoolmate, who took over from his parents. It has been my family’s favourite dining spot for a very long time. I am so glad that the business is still running after so many years.
See also: 6 Cookbooks on Malaysian Cuisine to Level Up Your Game