Souvenirs often serve as little reminders of your trip since most are physical representations of the places you’ve visited. Some people buy them for their friends and family, while others treat themselves. However, when it comes to Penang, the locals’ everyday food items make the perfect souvenirs.
People’s eyes light up when they discover you’re heading to Penang for a vacation! It’s no secret that this place is Malaysia’s culinary hotspot. While you can’t pack up char kway teow, nasi kandar, or Penang assam laksa in your suitcase, you can still bring back other awesome gifts.
1. Tau sar piah
Get ready to sink your teeth into a classic Chinese pastry that’s an absolute delight — tau sar piah. Picture a flaky exterior that crumbles perfectly, revealing a mouthwatering mung bean paste inside. Striking the perfect balance between soft and crunchy, it makes a great food gift. You can even enjoy it in sweet or savoury flavours. What’s not to love?
2. Penang white coffee
Get ready to taste a distinctive and beloved product from Penang: white coffee. Despite what the name may lead you to believe, the coffee beans aren’t actually white. Instead, they’re roasted with palm oil, brewed to perfection, and served with a generous amount of condensed milk. This is no low-calorie drink but worth the indulgence on a cheat day, and thanks to its special ingredients, the flavour and colour are truly unique.
Both locals and tourists can never resist grabbing a pack of these coffee beans, and the best part is they’re easily found at most convenient stores. So, go ahead and bring home a taste of Penang with this delightful coffee souvenir.
3. Pepper biscuits
If you or your loved ones don’t have much of a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on this crowd-favourite — pepper biscuits. They’re like a thinner version of Kampar chicken biscuits, but with a savoury twist that outweighs the sweetness. Trust us; this popular treat is a must-get if you want to gift something unique and bursting with flavour.
4. Peanut candy
Prepare your taste buds for a true Penang delicacy: crushed peanut candy. This iconic treat boasts a chewy interior and a slightly crunchy exterior layer. However, many versions exist. As one of Penang’s oldest handcrafted candies, it never disappoints, thanks to its delightful combination of nutty, sweet, and spicy flavours. This tiny confection will make anyone receiving it as a souvenir happy.
5. Pickled fruits
When it comes to pickled fruits in Malaysia, Pak Ali’s is a household name that stands out from the rest. Established in 2009, their Jeruk Madu Pak Ali (sweet pickled fruits) has garnered a loyal following thanks to their unique taste and aroma.
Over the years, this pickled fruit brand has earned numerous awards, which only solidified its status as a symbolic snack of the state. Today, Pak Ali’s products are shipped all over Malaysia, making them a reputable Penang souvenir for visitors to take home and enjoy.
6. Nutmeg
For generations, this region’s people have been reaping nutmeg’s flavours and benefits. This versatile spice has a long history of being a valuable agricultural resource dating back to the 19th century! But nutmeg is more than just a flavourful addition to dishes.
It also boasts natural antioxidants that aid in digestion, soothe sore throats, and reduce flatulence. You’ll find various nutmeg products available — from oils and creams to fruits and juices. Discover how you can use this flavourful spice and learn about its amazing health benefits.
7. Rojak paste
You can find fresh fruit just about anywhere, but Penang is the place to go if you’re seeking some of the best rojak sauces. Derived from the Bahasa Malaysia word meaning ‘mixture’, rojak is a delightful fruit salad snack loved by many Malaysians.
Various fruits, like guava, jicama, pineapples, and more, make up this popular dish, but the deciding factor of whether a rojak is a good one is the star of the show: the rojak paste. This paste serves as the primary ingredient, infusing the fruits with its unique flavours and creating a culinary sensation like no other. Find your favourite one, and be sure to pack in a jar or two (or three).
