Yesterday, after a long day at the stall, I found myself feeling hungry. I had spent most of the evening managing our stall alone in the Chinese food court in Cheras, Selangor, Malaysia, a bustling place filled with an array of food stalls, each offering their own unique menu and flavors. As the clock struck 10:30 p.m., my husband arrived to help me close up for the night. Once we finished cleaning up, my hunger was undeniable. I realized I hadn’t had dinner yet, and so, my husband suggested that I order some food from one of the stalls nearby.
I’ve always been fond of this particular Chinese stall because the owner is incredibly friendly and approachable. He’s the kind of person who greets you with a smile and makes you feel welcomed every time you stop by. As I’ve observed him cook for other customers in the past, I’ve always been impressed by his enthusiasm and the way he pours his energy into preparing the dishes. On this occasion, I decided to try something new – I ordered Ikan Bakar (grilled fish) with sambal (spicy chili paste). Along with it, I added squid and a serving of ladyfinger (okra) vegetables, also coated in sambal. The aroma of the grilled fish and the vibrant colors of the sambal and vegetables immediately made my mouth water. It was exactly what I needed after a tiring day.
In Malaysia, Chinese food is often seen as an everyday kind of meal, but for me, after living here for almost 15 years, I am still amazed at how simple dishes can have such comforting flavors. The food here isn’t always complex, but the taste is satisfying in a way that is hard to explain. It’s a mix of nostalgia and comfort, and it has a way of making you feel at home no matter how tired you are. Normally, I avoid eating rice late at night, but last night was different. I finished a whole cup of rice along with all the dishes I ordered, feeling completely content. My husband, on the other hand, didn’t eat much because he had already had his meal earlier. But I enjoyed every bite, feeling grateful for the little joys that food brings, especially after a busy day.
Photos is mine: taken by my own handphone Oppo