How to Make Buah Epal Salad (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Buah Epal, or apple, is a widely enjoyed fruit in Malaysia, often featured in fresh salads and light meals that reflect our multicultural food heritage. In this healthy Buah Epal Salad recipe, crisp apple slices are paired with local ingredients such as limau nipis (lime), cili merah, and roasted kacang tanah (peanuts), creating a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for lunch under the Malaysian sun. This salad is reminiscent of the popular 'kerabu' style, which celebrates the bright flavors of raw fruits and vegetables, enlivened with aromatic herbs like daun ketumbar (coriander) and daun pudina (mint). Malaysian cuisine is known for its creative use of fresh, local produce and the seamless blend of flavors from Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. This Buah Epal Salad is a modern take that stays true to these roots, offering a light, zesty dish that’s ideal for health-conscious eaters. It’s a testament to Malaysia’s ability to celebrate simple ingredients with bold, harmonious flavors, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a nutritious, vegetarian-friendly lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Buah epal (apple) (Green or red, cored and thinly sliced)
- 1 Cili merah (Thinly sliced for mild heat)
- 2 tbsp Kacang tanah panggang (roasted peanuts) (Coarsely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Daun ketumbar (coriander leaves) (Roughly chopped)
- 1 tbsp Daun pudina (mint leaves) (Roughly chopped)
- 1 Limau nipis (lime) (Juiced)
- 1/4 small Bawang besar (red onion) (Thinly sliced)
- 1/4 tsp Garam bukit (sea salt)
- 1 tsp Madu (honey) (Optional, for mild sweetness)
- 1/8 tsp Serbuk lada hitam (black pepper)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Wash and core the apples
Wash and core the apples. Slice them thinly and place in a mixing bowl.
Step 2 · Add sliced cili merah
Add sliced cili merah, red onion, daun ketumbar, and daun pudina to the apples.
Step 3 · Squeeze limau nipis juice over the mixture
Squeeze limau nipis juice over the mixture. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper.
Step 4 · If desired
If desired, add honey for mild sweetness and toss gently to combine.
Step 5 · Sprinkle roasted peanuts on top just before serving to retain their...
Sprinkle roasted peanuts on top just before serving to retain their crunch.
Step 6 · Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes before serving
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step 7 · Serve immediately as a light lunch or side dish
Serve immediately as a light lunch or side dish.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Malaysian Buah Epal Salad is a healthy lunch option because it’s made with fresh fruits and herbs, contains no fried or processed ingredients, and uses natural flavorings like lime and honey. The fiber content promotes satiety and digestive health, while low saturated fat and sodium help support heart wellness. It’s ideal for weight management and those looking to enjoy traditional flavors without extra calories.
A note on tradition
Buah Epal Salad is inspired by the kerabu tradition in Malaysia, where fresh fruits and vegetables are tossed with local herbs, lime, and nuts. While apples are not native, their use reflects Malaysia’s openness to incorporating global produce into local cuisine. This salad is commonly enjoyed at home as a quick meal or during gatherings, symbolizing the Malaysian love for fresh, light, and flavorful dishes.