As an international student in the UK, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of home-cooked Malaysian food to lift my spirits — especially on cold, gloomy days. While I can’t always visit my favourite street food stalls back home, I’ve found joy in recreating some beloved Malaysian dishes right here in my student kitchen with my friends. From hearty noodles to flavorful stir-fries, here’s how I’ve kept the taste of home alive in the UK. 

1. Pan Mee (Mee Hoon Kueh) 🍲🥬

Pan Mee — or Mee Hoon Kueh — has always been a childhood favorite of mine, and I was determined to make it from scratch. Rolling out the dough by hand and tearing it into flat pieces felt so nostalgic, almost like being back in my family kitchen.  

The comforting broth — rich with anchovies, mushrooms, and prawns — was perfect for warming me up on chilly UK evenings. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, and honestly, making the dough by hand is oddly therapeutic!  

✅ Tip: If you can’t find pak choy, substitute with spinach or kale for a similar texture and taste. 

2. Moonlight Hor Fun 🌕🍳

This silky, smoky noodle dish is one of those comforting late-night meals that always hits the spot. Stir-fried flat rice noodles tossed with tender beef slices or any meat of your choice, bathed in a glossy egg yolk that gives the dish its signature ‘moonlight’ glow — absolute perfection.  

Getting the signature “wok hei” (that smoky, charred flavor) can be tricky in a home kitchen, but using a well-heated pan and cooking in small batches helps achieve that authentic taste. Cracking the raw egg yolk on top just before serving makes the dish extra rich and indulgent. 

✅ Tip: For the best flavor, use dark soy sauce for that deep, caramelised finish.  

3. Char Kuey Teow 🍤🔥

No Malaysian food journey is complete without Char Kuey Teow! This stir-fried noodle dish is packed with prawns, eggs, Chinese sausage, and a punchy blend of sauces. Getting the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and smoky flavors took some practice — but once I nailed it, it felt like I was back in Penang.  

Cooking over high heat is key, and I love adding a generous handful of bean sprouts and chives for that authentic street food crunch.  

✅ Tip: A splash of belacan (shrimp paste) really elevates the flavor, giving it that bold, unmistakable Malaysian kick.  

The Joy of Malaysian Cooking in the UK ❤️

Cooking these dishes has been more than just about satisfying my cravings — it’s a way to stay connected to my roots. Whether I’m sharing a bowl of pan mee with my housemates or introducing friends to the magic of moonlight hor fun, these moments remind me that home isn’t always a place — sometimes, it’s a taste.  

For fellow Malaysian students (or anyone craving bold, comforting flavors), I highly recommend giving these dishes a try. They’re not just delicious — they’re a wonderful reminder that no matter how far you are from home, a taste of comfort is just a pan away.  

What’s your favorite Malaysian dish to make abroad? Let me know in the comments! 😊