We’ve talked about Kelantanese kuih-muih with funny names and melt-in-your-mouth flavours before. Now, it’s time to explore the equally enticing desserts of Terengganu. Just like its neighbouring state, Terengganu’s kuih-muih (desserts) are a treat for the senses. Many of them are packed with coconut and sweet flavours, reflecting the state’s tradition and appreciation for fresh, natural ingredients like coconut, sugar, and rice.
From sweet, chewy treats like Sira Nekbat to savoury-sweet hybrids like Akok Berlauk, there’s something for every dessert lover to enjoy. But, heads up! There’s a whole lot of coconut in this!
If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful coastal region of Terengganu soon, be sure to keep this list handy and prepare your taste buds for a delicious journey through Terengganu’s most beloved kuih.
1. Sira Nekbat
Sira Nekbat, one of Terengganu’s most iconic desserts, is a sweet and chewy treat made from glutinous rice balls that are cooked in a sweet syrup made from palm sugar, pandan leaves, and coconut milk. The soft, sticky rice balls absorb the syrup, giving them a deliciously sweet and aromatic flavour. This dessert is often enjoyed during festivals and family gatherings.
2. Sagupal
Sagupal or Asam Gupal is a sweet, dumpling-like dessert made from glutinous rice flour filled with a sweet coconut filling. The dough is soft and chewy, with the grated coconut and brown sugar filling providing a rich, nutty flavour. These sweet treats are typically steamed, resulting in a sticky and satisfying dessert.
3. Bingka Gula Merah
Bingka Gula Merah, or Bingka Gula for short, is a soft, custard-like dessert made from rice flour, eggs, coconut milk, and sugar. Its golden-brown top and smooth, gooey texture are a delight to the senses. The flavour is slightly sweet, with a subtle coconut taste that makes it a perfect way to end a meal or to enjoy with a cup of tea.
4. Kayu Keramat
Kayu Keramat might remind you of kuih cakoi or keropok lekor, but it’s actually a sweet treat made from sticky rice mixed with coconut milk and palm sugar. The rice is packed into a solid block, giving it a dense and slightly chewy bite. It’s often served during traditional ceremonies and festivals, making it a beloved treat in the region.
5. Tok Aji Serban
Tok Aji Serban translates to ‘The Sheikh with a Turban’. The dough is rolled into small round shapes, resembling how a turban is wrapped around the head, and then deep-fried until it turns golden brown and crispy. The outcome is a crunchy outside with a soft, chewy inside. This tasty treat is a favourite among locals, often enjoyed as a snack in the afternoon or as a dessert after meals.
6. Che Mek Molek
This bite-sized dessert is shared between Terengganu and Kelantan, and loved by many. Che Mek Molek is made from sweet potato dough stuffed with a mixture of grated coconut and sugar. The dough is rolled, filled, and then deep-fried to a golden crisp. The inside is soft and slightly sweet, while the outer crust is crispy and delicious.
7. Pulut Nyor
A famous traditional Terengganu dessert, Pulut Nyor is made from glutinous rice cooked with coconut milk and sweetened with sugar. What makes this dessert particularly unique is the addition of grated coconut, which enhances its flavour and texture. The coconut’s natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the soft, sticky rice, making it a must-have dessert during festive occasions.
8. Akok Berlauk
Unlike other Terengganu desserts, Akok Berlauk is a savoury-sweet hybrid that combines the richness of glutinous rice with a variety of flavourful fillings. While the most common filling is a savoury mix of chicken or beef with spices, there are also sweet versions of akok that are made with coconut milk and sugar. This dish is often served at special events or as a snack to accompany tea.
9. Ketupat Pulut Dakap
The traditional Malaysian ketupat, often enjoyed during Eid, is a compressed rice cake wrapped in palm leaves with a touch of saltiness. However, in Terengganu, there’s another version called Ketupat Pulut Dakap or Pulut Dakap Pisang. This version is also wrapped in palm leaves but is served with rich coconut milk and a dash of sugar, resulting in a deliciously sweet and creamy treat.
10. Sekaya Telor
Sekaya Telor is a rich, creamy custard-like dessert made from eggs, coconut milk, sugar, and pandan leaves. The mixture is carefully steamed to create a silky-smooth texture that melts in your mouth. The pandan leaves impart a delicate, fragrant flavour, and the sweetness is perfectly balanced, making this dessert a satisfying finish to any meal.
Where to get these kuih-muih in Terengganu?
1. Pasar Payang
Pasar Payang, located in the heart of Kuala Terengganu, is one of the oldest and most famous markets in the state. The market has an old-world charm, blending traditional stalls and modern retail shops.
You’ll be able to find kuih served in colourful displays, often wrapped in banana leaves or plastic containers, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. If you’re in Kuala Terengganu, Pasar Payang is the perfect spot to indulge in authentic local desserts and experience the vibrant culture of the region.
Address: Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kampung Tanjung Kapur, 20200 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
2. Pasar Batu 6
Another fantastic spot to discover Terengganu’s sweet treats is Pasar Batu 6 in the Chendering area, located just outside Kuala Terengganu. This local market is especially popular among residents and visitors for its variety of affordable and delicious kuih-muih.
In addition to the kuih, Pasar Batu 6 also has stalls selling fresh produce, local spices, and other snacks, making it an excellent spot to explore Terengganu’s local food scene. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, and the market is an excellent place to chat with the vendors and learn more about the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Address: Kampung Batu Enam, 21060 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
