Kia Kaha KL: Banana Leaf

One of my favourite eating experiences in KL is Banana Leaf rice. This originates from South India, a part of the world that the majority of Indian Malaysians ancesters hail from. The experience starts with the placing of a banana leaf in front of you. This takes the place of a plate and for someone brought up on meat and potatoes, is a wonderfully exotic start to a meal.

The first step is a couple of large dollops of rice (3 if you’re real hungry) placed in the middle followed by usually 3 separate vegetable dishes. The types will vary between establishments (there are literally dozens of these places around KL) with cucumber and yogurt the most common. You are then given the choice of curry gravies and although the flavours are usually standardised between establishments, the quality always varies. Daal gravy is non spicy in contrast to the remaining options of chicken or fish, which will always have some kick. If you want all three then that is fine to.

Our favourite Banana leaf restaurant is in Bangsar, a short drive from our condominium in Mid Valley. Why do I think it is better than all the others? One reason and one reason only. Deep fried bitter gourd. Your arteries will start to wince merely looking at this stuff, but it is delicious. In addition there is a tasty chutney as well as dried, salted chillies that are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression long after the meal has finished (if you know what I mean). Described above is merely the standard package. One can buy mutton, chicken, beef, and seafood side dishes of varying degrees of spiciness, with the fried satong highly recommended at Nirwana, Bangsar.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pma_dy7bgGY