Have you ever noticed how our local food scene isn’t afraid to get a little strange with its names? We’ve got Nasi Lemak Anjing, Nasi Goreng Haram, and now…Nasi Ayam Penyet Mak Lampir? Named after the horrifying folklore legend Mak Lampir, this sambal will haunt you in the best way possible, fitting its name!
Nestled near the BRT Mentari station in Bandar Sunway, there is a warung that is crafting its own culinary legend, attracting throngs of hungry diners, especially during peak lunch hours.
But wait, what’s the story behind Mak Lampir?
Image Credit: Murai.MY, Mister Aladdin
Unlike the terrifying look she’s often portrayed with, Mak Lampir’s story begins as a tragic one. Originally a princess, she was rejected by her lover’s royal family. Seeking solace, she found herself apprenticed to a powerful but powerful witch, who possessed black magic. Years later, war erupted between her adopted land and her former love’s kingdom. The consequences of the battle result in the death of her lover, leaving her consumed by grief.
Unable to handle reality, Mak Lampir resorted to using her powers to resurrect him. However, the dark ritual transformed her beauty, and tragically, her lover could not accept her altered appearance. This heartbreaking rejection further fueled Mak Lampir’s despair, leading her down a darker path.
Talk about a tale that’s truly tragic.
But… Is the Ayam Penyet as interesting as the story of Mak Lampir?
Image Credit: Ayam Penyet Mak Lampir (FB), Google Reviews
Turning heads with its name, the Nasi Ayam Penyet couldn’t possibly reel in returns and new customers if the dish itself was mediocre. Known for its sambal, locals rave about how addictive and distinctive it is; they can’t get enough of it. It turns out their belacan is sourced from Kelantan, and although it’s spicy, the heat doesn’t curl you up, making it still enjoyable. It also has a balance of sweetness to it!
The colour is also a darker shade, like a dried chilli version of sambal. There’s possibly a mystery ingredient in the sambal that no one knows, since customers are saying they can’t get the same sambal taste anywhere else.
Their chicken is said to be juicy and fried to a crispy skin, balancing off the rich sambal taste. For just RM10 a plate, it’s no surprise that this Nasi Ayam Penyet has become a go-to spot for many locals to satisfy their ayam penyet cravings.
Like the usual Nasi Ayam Penyet serving, it comes with a plate of rice with sides of cabbage, tauhu, and tempeh, and a bowl of soup.
If one fried chicken isn’t enough for your appetite, you can order two chickens for RM14.90 per set.
What’s good here other than their Nasi Ayam Penyet?
Image Credit: Google Reviews
It turns out the crowd isn’t here just for the Nasi Ayam Penyet, but for their other penyet dishes like Ikan Keli Penyet and Ikan Talapia Penyet. Their Keli Penyet is said to have an incredibly crunchy exterior, and the Talapia Penyet they serve here is so big—comparatively as wide as your face!
There’s also Puyuh Penyet and Ikan Kembung Penyet if you’re craving for other protein options.
Their limited menu says it all: they’re here to focus on their penyet dishes, and their penyet dishes only. There’s nothing wrong with that, since they’ve proven to be pretty dang good at it.
Warning: Be prepared to become a regular customer, because just one bite of their Nasi Ayam Penyet (or any of their penyet dishes) and you’ll be hooked!
Nasi Ayam Penyet Mak Lampir
Address: Jln PJS 8/9, Bandar Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Food Status: Muslim-owned
Contact: 010-561 0852
Craving bizarre names? Nasi Lemak Anjing might just feed into your appetite.
