Top Herbs Malaysian use for Western cooking

Herbs play a huge part in Malaysian cooking. Though some recipes call for fresh herbs, you will find that most dishes requite potent dried herbs that you can conveniently buy from supermarkets. Dried Malaysian herbs, in general, have higher potency and concentration than fresh herbs, so you'll need less. As a rule, you will need 3 three times the amount of fresh herbs as dry. For instance, if a recipe requires 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano, you may only need 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Keep this formula in mind: 3 teaspoons of fresh equals 1 tablespoon of dried.

There are so many Malaysian herbs used in everyday cooking, but you don’t have to buy them all. Just be sure to stock your pantry with these 5 herbs, at least:

• Oregano – This important culinary herb is known for its strong flavor, which is slightly bitter and highly aromatic. Good quality oregano can be strong enough to numb the tongue, according to experts. This herb can be used in a wide variety of Malaysian dishes and never fails to add a bold hit of flavor. You can also use it for Western dishes like roasted chicken breasts with oregano and lime.
• Basil – Added towards the end of cooking to preserve its flavor, basil is another Malaysian staple. Research studies have shown that basil has unique health-protecting advantages. It can help prevent cardiovascular diseases and has anti-inflammatory effects.
• Thyme – Fragrant and delicate, thyme is a great addition to dishes that are based on eggs and vegetables. It is also a fantastic addition to stock, soups, and stews.
• Bay Leaves – Also heavily used in Malaysia cooking, dried bay leaves should definitely be in your kitchen. They can be added to butter rice along with ginger and garlic.
• Mixed Herbs – Get thyme, parsley, marjoram, oregano, basil, and sage in one expert mix. This herb combination is perfect for your next meat loaf, casserole, pie, or meatballs. It is also great for soups.

Where to Buy Malaysian Herbs

To get the freshest top quality herbs, choose a supplier that has a solid reputation for supplying a wide range of premium herbs products to food service companies and retailers in Malaysia. The best manufacturers are source and steam sterilize their herb products from prominent food suppliers that also supply to giants like Masterfood and McCormick. They supply Malaysian herbs to major hypermarkets including Tesco, Village Grocer, Aeon Big, Giant, Checkers, B.I.G, and many more.

This article is written by Brandon, who is the sales manager at Hexa Food Sdn. Bhd. It is HALAL and HACCP Certified food manufacturing company that supply herbs, spices and seasoning products in Malaysia at affordable rates.