Nasi Dagang or its english translation, "Trader's Rice", is a simple and delightful dish that is particularly popular in the East Coast of Malaysia, especially in Terengganu and Kelantan. As the name suggest, traders who would travel long distances along the trade routes of Malaysia would need a meal that is not only effortless to carry around but filling as well. Nasi Dagang became the meal of choice for these traders as not only is it a simple meal, it is full of nourishing ingredients.
The rice is cooked and steam in coconut milk (Santan)/ which makes the rice taste creamier and richer. Fenugreek seeds (halba), sliced shallots and lemongrass are also added to the rice to make it even more flavourful. Nasi Dagang is served with fish curry or Gulai Ikan. The curry itself is a Malay-styled curry which uses coconut milk and traditional Malay spices. Pickled vegetables (acar sayur) are paired together with this dish to contrast the richness of the fish curry.
Whether enjoyed by traders in the past or diners around the table today, Nasi Dagang remains a hearty meal that brings flavour and satisfaction together.
