Beneath Every Bite Lies History: The Untold Story of Hainanese Chicken Rice in Malaysia

You clicked on this, I assume you are a fan of chicken rice? How often do you eat chicken rice in a week? At least once or twice? Ever wonder why 'Hainanese Chicken Rice' is the most famous among all? Prepare to be captivated by the fascinating story of Hainanese chicken rice!

Origins of Hainanese Chicken Rice

In the early days of Hainan province, China, a group of immigrants adapted to a delicious dish known as 'Wenchang chicken'. It's a local legendary chicken with origins reaching back to the Qin Dynasty. True foodies, the Hainanese used special kind of 'Wenchang chicken' to create their signature meal. This delightful tradition extended across Eastern China. Fast forward 1900s, they brought this dish from China to Southeast Asia. This spectacular cuisine was only available in Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand. It easily became a household favourite among Malaysian and Singaporean Chinese, affectionately known as "chicken rice".

Another factor contributing to its popularity in Southeast Asia is the 'Hainanese Chicken Rice' is made widely accessible at food courts, hawker centres, cafeterias, and even shopping malls. The price is usually between 5 to 8 ringgits and is frequently served with special chilli sauce and black soy sauce for added flavour.

What Makes Hainanese Chicken Rice So Special?

Hainanese Chicken Rice is all about the ideal combination of flavours, everything has to be "just right" in order to make an authentic Hainanese Chicken Rice. Imagine delicate, juicy steamed chicken sliced into bite-sized chunks to wow your tastebuds. The aromatic rice, though, is what actually sets it apart from the rest. Each grain is infused with the delicious flavour of chicken, resulting in a wonderful combination of flavours in every bite. To enhance the flavour even more, a mild soy sauce is poured over it, providing a additional savoury kick.

But wait, there's more! Fresh cilantro sprigs are sprinkled over top for a punch of flavour. Don't forget about the sesame oil, which provides a nutty flavour that will have you going back for more. The garlic chilli sauce is the game changer. It is the ultimate hidden weapon. It elevates the dish to a whole new level of flavour by being spicy, garlicky, and utterly irresistible. Simply dip a piece of chicken into it and prepare for a flavour explosion in your tongue.

Hainanese Chicken Rice is more than just a dish; it's an experience. Tender chicken, aromatic rice, light soy sauce, cilantro, and that fantastic garlic chilli sauce all combine to create a flavour symphony that will leave you wanting more. Prepare to have your taste senses enticed by Hainanese Chicken Rice. It's a dish that combines simplicity, powerful flavours, and sheer pleasure. I would suggest to go on "Hainanese Chicken Rice Tour" around Malaysia and immerse yourself into this whole variation of Hainanese Chicken Rice. Don't pass on this delicious cuisine!