Another Signature Penang Hokkien Cuisine

The Famous Penang Lobak

The Hokkien clan of Penang started immigrating to different parts of South East Asia and some landed in Penang in search of work even before the colonial days. The Hokkiens were predominantly from the Fujian Province in China. But others may have arrived from Guangzhou Province. That was what we were told by our fore fathers but no written records or clues were left behind to proof any of these claims. Most of my early ancestors were either seafarers or small business owners that came to Malaysia looking for a better life. Some has arrived in this part of South East Asia even before the founding of Penang by Sir Francis Light.

Spice Flavoured Penang Lobak

Over time, with the cultural mix and diversity, many of the unique cuisines that are found in Penang today were actually creations that were developed here on the island, these signature cuisines were never found anywhere on mainland China because Penang was surrounded with the richness of the spices. One of the most unique is the Penang Lobak. A a meat wrapped cuisine that originated from Penang. The soy bean curd sheet is used as the wrapping sheet. And the stuffing is a combination of minced or sliced pork with five spices, taro, carrots and jicama.

The Uniquely Special Cuisine of Penang

Spices were abundance and readily available in Penang. Therefore, it is no wonder that many of the best and tastiest cuisines originated from Penang. And all of which uses some of these spices. The Penang Lobak cuisine is meat base and the meat that is stuffed in the Lobak Roll was marinated over night with five spices. The meat was left over night in the fridge to absorb the flavours and fragrance of the spices. When fried the Penang Lobak acquires a unique taste and crispiness, all of which comes from the combination of the ingredients and spices.