
Murtabak with Lamb
Global • halal_safe
How to Make Murtabak with Lamb (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Murtabak with Lamb is a beloved Malaysian street snack, renowned for its aromatic spices and rich, savory filling. Originating from the vibrant pasar malam (night market) culture, Murtabak blends influences from Malay, Indian Muslim, and Arab traders, making it a true representation of Malaysia’s multicultural culinary heritage. This snack is typically enjoyed hot off the griddle, with the flaky roti encasing a spiced lamb filling, often served alongside tangy pickled onions or a simple acar (vegetable pickle). The lamb murtabak’s signature taste comes from a blend of local spices like jintan manis (fennel), ketumbar (coriander), and fresh herbs including daun bawang (spring onion) and daun ketumbar (cilantro). Using lean lamb and whole wheat flour for the roti, this recipe maintains the authentic flavors while boosting its nutritional value—perfect for health-conscious Malaysians who love traditional street food but want to keep their calorie count in check. The inclusion of local aromatics like bawang besar (onion), bawang putih (garlic), and a hint of halia (ginger) ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, making Murtabak with Lamb a wholesome snack for any occasion.
Ingredients(for 1 folded murtabak per serving)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (tepung gandum penuh)
- 1/3 cup Water (air)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (minyak zaitun)
- 200g Lean lamb mince (daging kambing cincang)
- 1 medium, finely chopped Onion (bawang besar)
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic (bawang putih)
- 1 teaspoon, grated Ginger (halia)
- 2 stalks, sliced Spring onion (daun bawang)
- 2 tablespoons, chopped Coriander leaves (daun ketumbar)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground fennel (jintan manis)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground coriander (serbuk ketumbar)
- 1, lightly beaten Egg (telur)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (garam)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (lada hitam)
- 2 tablespoons Low-fat yogurt (yogurt rendah lemak) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough by mixing whole wheat flour, water, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Knead until smooth, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Resting the dough helps achieve a stretchable, soft texture.
- 2
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick pan. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until aromatic.
3 minutes
Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the aromatics.
- 3
Add lean lamb mince, breaking it up. Stir in ground fennel, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Cook until lamb is browned.
5 minutes
Use a fork to break up the mince for an even filling.
- 4
Remove from heat. Mix in spring onions, coriander leaves, and beaten egg. Stir quickly to prevent the egg from scrambling.
2 minutes
Egg binds the filling; quick mixing ensures even distribution.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing whole wheat flour and lean lamb makes this Malaysian murtabak a healthier alternative to traditional versions. Lower fat content and added fiber support heart health and weight management. By minimizing oil and using fresh herbs, this dish maintains vibrant flavors while boosting antioxidant intake. It’s an excellent option for calorie-conscious individuals who want authentic taste without compromising nutrition.
This lamb murtabak provides a balanced meal with quality protein from lean lamb, fiber from whole wheat flour, and beneficial fats from olive oil. Aromatics like ginger and garlic offer natural anti-inflammatory properties, while coriander and fennel aid digestion. Local herbs add vitamins A and C, making it a nutrient-rich snack. Using less oil and lean meat reduces saturated fat, and the whole wheat base supports sustained energy release.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Knead the dough well for a flexible and soft roti.
- 💡Tip 2: Use a non-stick pan to minimize oil and achieve crisp results.
- 💡Tip 3: Let the filling cool slightly before folding to prevent soggy dough.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover murtabak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a dry pan or oven to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the roti soggy.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 480.0 kcal |
| Protein | 8.1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 23.5 g |
| Total Fat | 9.6 g |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.8 g |
| Iron | 1.7 mg |
| Calcium | 38.0 mg |
| Sodium | 290.0 mg |
| Potassium | 180.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 38.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 2.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 22.0 mg |
| Zinc | 1.1 mg |
| Phosphorus | 92.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 1.9 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.4 µg |
| Folate | 22.0 µg |





