
Otak-otak
Otak-otak is often co-mentioned alongside with Muar, Johor. Besides, this dish is widely known in Southeast Asia where it is conventionally served wrapped in a banana leaf. Otak refers to “brain” in Malay language and that is how the name of the dish is derived as it somewhat resembles brains. This grilled fish cake is made by mixing fish paste with mixture of spices. In Johor, Malaysia, the colour of otak-otak is reddish-orange acquired from chili, turmeric and curry powder. Although it is traditionally made with fish paste, innovative civilians utilize prawn or crab meat for modern versions.