If Sarawak is known for its Mee Kolo, Johor is known for Nasi Briyani, and Terengganu for Nasi Dagang, Sabah is famous for its representative food, Mee Tuaran.
This moreish hawker dish originated from Tuaran, a little town situated about 32 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu in the West Coast of Sabah. Created by the Hakka Chinese community, Mee Tuaran—at its simplest—is made up of fried egg noodles, sweet barbecued meat slices, fried beaten eggs, and chopped green vegetables.
Tuaran’s population consists of Sabah ethnic groups and Malaysia Chinese of Hakka, Hainanese, Hokkien, Fuchow, Cantonese, and Kadazan-Dusun descent. This harmonious community is what gave birth to this iconic dish that later became one of Sabah’s identity.
What sets Mee Tuaran apart from other dishes is that it was created by people who wanted a quick and simple meal but filling at the same time. The noodles are not only handmade—consisting purely of egg yolks and flour, these noodles are pounded repeatedly to form a much denser texture. You’ll be surprised to learn that even a small portion of Mee Tuaran can fill you up!
Although Mee Tuaran can be found almost everywhere in Kota Kinabalu and most other parts in Sabah, be sure to find the authentic one in Tuaran town if you have the chance to!
