Kopitiam plant-based food - is it any good?
Despite the number of modern, hipster cafes sprouting in the city, local coffee shops, or as we locals call it “kopitiam” holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Having a cup of tea or coffee with kaya toast, or enjoying classic Malaysian staples like nasi lemak has been a culture ingrained in the Malaysian lifestyle.
Food trends have evolved tremendously, and now plant-based meals are increasingly growing in demand, as Malaysians seek healthier options.
Now, you can enjoy kopitiam goodness, without the guilt.
Fans of OldTown White Coffee would know that the coffee chain has expanded its menu to include plant-based meals. Recently, the menu has expanded to offer more delectable plant-based dishes.
Some highlights worth mentioning are the classic OldTown White Coffee dishes like BBq Dry Curry Egg Noodle and OldTown Nasi Lemak which have been given a healthy make-over.
These meals offer “chicken” made from plant-based ingredients. While it doesn't provide the actual texture of real chicken, one can liken it to the taste of chicken nuggets.
The nasi lemak comes with the “chicken” curry, and it was delicious and fulfilling to say the least. Out of all the dishes tried, the plant-based chicken cooked in curry is the winner.
Another dish called the Ginger Chick’n Steamed Rice is also worth trying. It typically looks like a dish that would be made with fish, however, this tasted fairly delightful and offers a perfect balance between the seasoning and ginger that's not too overpowering.
Some dishes, like BBQ Dry Egg Noodles, come with barbeque flavoured “chicken” as well as plant-based eggs. You heard that right, eggs!
On this menu, they offer eggs cooked in two methods - fried and steamed. If you don’t mind the oil, go for the fried version as the crisp and crunch makes for a flavourful side dish or snack.
Speaking of eggs, its Hainanese Chick’n Chop Rice is a must try too. The “chicken” is coated with a plant-based egg and fried to perfection.
Another crowd favourite was the popcorn chicken bites. They have three flavours; original, spicy, and cheese. Tried the first two, and loved it!
Now, you may want to wash that all down with some sweet beverages. Fret not, the beverages are plant-based too.
If you’re into coconuts, go for the Coconut Candy White Coffee Latte, made with gula melaka. Other options like the Gula Melaka Milk Tea, Double Enriched Chocolate drinks offer the best of caffeine, sugar, and oat milk.
They may not be entirely thirst-quenching, but flavourful and pleasant on the taste buds nonetheless.
Another initiative by the coffee chain to help people make healthier choices is that you can view the calorie count and allergens on each menu. This way you know exactly what you’re consuming.
The calorie counts, are provided by the Health Ministry so rest assured the information is accurate.
Check out the menu at the nearest OldTown White Coffee shop.
