American beef jerky is a convenient and well-loved snack. But many other appetizing preserved meats are enjoyed around the world. Among them is the jerky known as bak kwa in Malaysia and Singapore.

Unlike American jerky, which is salty, bak kua is seasoned with sugar to give it a caramel-like flavor. The sweetness is addictive! Malaysian-style jerky is also usually made with ground and not sliced meat. This means that each piece is tender and juicy. It can be bitten through easily and is not as dry and fibrous as American jerky.

You can try some of the most tempting Malaysian meat jerky in Manhattan’s Chinatown at Malaysia Beef Jerky Inc. The shop, which is located on Elizabeth Street, near Grand Street, carries a range of beef, chicken and pork jerky. They also offer spicy versions. All varieties are made in-store, without preservatives.

Most of the jerky costs about $17 for a pound and $4.20 for a quarter pound. You get about five large squares of jerky in a quarter pound. With its intense flavor, this generous amount can feed a few people. Or you can buy extra to take home and make some tasty sandwiches.

While the shop name suggests that beef is the most common variety, in Asia, pork is the most popular flavor. The name was chosen because Americans are more familiar with beef jerky. But if you want to order like a local, go for the pork! It is the original.

For more delicious Asian meat jerky, join New York Food Tours for the Tastes of Chinatown Tour or Exotic Southeast Asian Food Tour. You’ll get to sample Hong Kong-style jerky which is equally moist and full of flavor!